Assignment

Instructions and Submission Guidelines

1. Hard copies of papers are due at the beginning of class on the date noted. Please use double-spaced 12 point Times (black type on white paper). Papers will be accepted by email by permissiononly.

2. You have the option of co-writing a paper with a (1) classmate. This can be a challenging, but valuable exercise in collaborative learning. Co-authors will receive the same paper grade. It is up to you to ensure that both authors contribute equally.

3. Note the Paper Grading Scale below and staple this page at the end of your paper. It will be used for grading and returned with your paper.

Reminders from the syllabus

There will be four writing assignments based on lectures and readings. I will distribute the assignments at least one week before they are due for submission. Each assignment will count as 15% of the final grade. Papers should be about 3 to 4 pages in length.

Late papers policy

Papers are due at the beginning of class on the indicated dates. Late papers will be penalized five (5) points for each day late. Papers will not be accepted more than one week late. The only exceptions will be due to documented medical reasons and family emergencies.

Assignment

Sagan writes, "Science is a way to call the bluff of those who only pretend to knowledge. It is a bulwark against mysticism, against superstition, against religion misapplied to where it has no business being." (p. 38)

What is epistemology? What are some of the central components of Sagan's epistemology that lead him to this statement?

Do all claims to knowledge have equal merit, according to Sagan? Select some short quotations that best illustrate Sagan'sthinking and his argument for science.

You might include reference to such things as Sagan's position on physical evidence, falsifiability, skepticism, critical thinking, humility, and human fallibility. In general, summarize Sagan's argument for science and the thinking that leads him to this position.