Sunday, 26 May 2013

My Philo 10 Experience under Prof. Bernard Caslib (UP Diliman)

          If you are looking for an easy uno class, this is definitely not for you. GC? Shy type? Close-minded? Run for your life! Because for sure Philo 10 under Sir Bernard Caslib is not the right-est class for you.
            Sir always says that his class is a “SUPER GE CLASS”, and I agree because of the following reasons: 1) Memorizing is definitely a no-no. More than anything else, you need to understand the philosophies. The name of the philosophers, the places, etc. are just supplementary information. What’s more important is that you can explain each philosophy in your own words. 2) You will not only master the art of philosophy, but also stage acting, dancing, and even singing! Sir B. does not want students who do not know how to appreciate other forms of communication. Others might ask, “What’s the point of performing in a Philosophy class?” Mind you. This class won’t be as interesting as it is without these performances. But then again it is not only about losing your shy bones in your body. It is more on being creative and critical at the same time because after each performance, you need to explain how it is related to the assigned readings. Don’t worry! It’s not done individually, so you have people to share your whoops moments with. 3) There’s a class field trip! Need I say more? and 4) An outreach activity in relation to “The Meaning of Life”. We sometimes tend to become idealistic that we forget what’s happening in reality. This class is a wake-up call that once in a while, we need to give back or share our blessings to those who are in need. Philo 10 will not be Philo 10 without the application of what we learn in class in real life scenarios, and the outreach activity is the perfect avenue to portray the true “Meaning of Life”.
                But above everything I said, what made Philo 10 more exciting is the company of my classmates. I cannot imagine surviving this class without the help of these people. We reviewed together for the Midterms (which is challenging, by the way). We spent time discussing different philosophies and so forth. What’s funny is that we debate over what a certain philosopher said. We argue if this certain act is ethical or not according to Aristotle or Plato. I know it’s so nerdy (and maybe unusual) to see students using Philosophical concepts in a supposedly normal conversation. And yes, that’s what you get when you enrol in Philo 10 (not that it is a bad thing).
                As for Sir Bernard, what more can I say? He really knows what he is doing, and he is so good at it. I cannot ask for more seriously. He explains the concepts clearly, but at the same time challenges you to understand it on your own. He wants his students to become participative, and engaging.

                So if you think you are up to tons of readings, performances, and critical thinking, Philo 10 under Sir Bernard is definitely for you. I assure you that after your class, you will be enlightened about everything (Promise)! J
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Note: I took Philo 10 during the Summer of A.Y. '12-'13.


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