Active learning ideas
This topic explores the fundamental question of what it means to be human, examining biological, psychological, and existential lenses. Students analyze whether humans are inherently good, evil, or blank slates, and they tackle the tension between free will and determinism. These discussions are central to the Ontario curriculum's focus on human nature and help students build a personal philosophical framework.
Activity 01
Assign students roles representing different philosophers like Hobbes, Rousseau, or an Indigenous Elder. They must debate a specific scenario, such as how to handle a resource shortage, from their assigned perspective on human nature.
Are humans inherently good or evil?
Activity 02
Divide the class into two sides to argue whether a person's life path is chosen or predestined by biology and environment. Students must use specific philosophical theories to support their points.
Do we have free will or are our actions determined?
Activity 03
Place various quotes and images representing different views on consciousness and human nature around the room. Students rotate in small groups to annotate the posters with their critiques and connections.
What defines human consciousness?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Human nature is a fixed biological fact that cannot be debated.
Human nature is a philosophical construct influenced by culture and history. Using simulations helps students see how different societal structures can bring out different 'natural' behaviors.
Existentialism means that nothing matters and life is pointless.
Existentialism emphasizes the radical freedom to create one's own meaning. Collaborative investigations into existentialist texts can help students find the 'empowering' side of this philosophy.
Methods used in this brief
Introduction to Philosophical Inquiry
Students explore the nature of philosophical questions and the basic tools of logic and reasoning. They learn to distinguish philosophical inquiry from other academic disciplines.
8 methodologies
The Mind-Body Problem
Students investigate the relationship between the physical brain and the conscious mind. They analyze dualism, materialism, and other theories of consciousness.
8 methodologies