History of Modern Philosophy (Dr. Vailati) Spring 1999
Write a paper on one of the following topics.  For length and due date, see syllabus.

1) Berkeley claims that all our ideas are visibly inactive (Principles, sec. 25).  Explain what assumptions lie behind this claim.  Finally, present at least an objection and consider some Berkeleyan possible replies.

2) According to Kant, space and time are transcendentally ideal and empirically real.
a)Clearly explain what he means.
b)Clearly explain his arguments for this claim.
c)Clearly point out some of the problems affecting Kant's account.

3) Explain Hume's account of causality and Kant's criticism of it in the Second Analogy.  Finally, assess Kant's view.

4) Clearly state Kant’s argument in the “Refutation of Idealism,” making clear what type if Idealism Kant in attacking.  Is Kant’s argument successful?  Discuss.

5) Compare and contrast the notion of state of nature in Hobbes and Locke.  Then show how the different notions of state of nature affect the type of political society these two philosophers propose.