We have 28 class sessions scheduled, and you are expected to attend them all, on time. Whether this course is a success or not depends in large part on students' willingness to come to class prepared for serious discussion. I want to emphasize that this discussion must be civil and respectful , as I expect that the class will disagree about issues that are weighty and personal. If you are unable to make it to class, please contact me prior to the class and explain, and I will make the judgment about excused absences. Each unexcused absence costs 0.5 points, up to a total of 14 points.
Students are responsible for all class material that they miss.
Read and think about all assigned material. I have not ordered books for purchase. For each reading assignment, please take notes in your notebook. These reading notes will not be submitted or graded, but they are important because they encourage you to read actively, rather than passively, and will serve you well as an index to the reading when you wish to review the course material. Focus reading proposals.