Discussion Question Category: Metaphysics

Double Trouble

Which robot is the “real” Algernon (the one at the house, or the one who returns from the company)? Why? Is there a particular part of the robot that is central to his identity (without it he wouldn’t be himself)? Would you think differently about which one is the “real” Algernon if the changes were Double Trouble

Chrysanthemum

What makes a name a “perfect” name? Is there such a thing? Is any name perfect? Every name? What does it mean for something to be perfect? Is your name an important part of who you are? If you changed your name, would you change? Why do the other students tease Chrysanthemum? How do people Chrysanthemum

Bear that Wasn’t

How does a bear know it’s time to hibernate? How does a bear know anything? How do you know when it’s time for bed? How do you know anything? What is something you know you know? What is something you believe but aren’t sure of? How do you know that something is a bear? How Bear that Wasn’t

Albert’s Impossible Toothache

Turtles don’t have teeth, but Albert says he has a toothache. Is Albert just imagining that he has a toothache? Is it possible for imaginary aches to hurt as much as real ones? Is it possible that Albert is pointing at a real ache, but not a toothache? Can we point to things and talk Albert’s Impossible Toothache