When asked to describe what a philosophy class usually looks like, Matthew Kropp said, “First, we go over some slides with Mr Cannon. Then, we have a large discussion and argument about the slides which usually lasts for the whole class, and never ends with unanimous agreement. Sometimes we read passages and discuss prior philosophical ideas, but every class usually ends in discussion/argument.” The sliideshow that Mr. Cannon uses to lecture tends to sparkspirited discussion in the class, allowing students to explore concepts through their own interpretations. 

There are many entertaining aspects of philosophy, but when Matthew Manning was asked to highlight some of his favorite topics we’ve discussed, he responded, “When we talked about how JFK wasn’t killed by Lee Harvey Oswald and also when we discussed Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster and how Princess Diana faked her death,” (referencing the conspiracy theory project). The conspiracy theory project allowed students to demonstrate how to justify beliefs, and led to animated debate on whether a theory was believable, not believable, or fact. 

Brigid Kelly gave an enthusiastic response when asked what her favorite memory in philosophy is. She stated, “I went into philosophy class thinking I already had a lot of previous knowledge that would set me up for success but unlike other classes philosophy doesn’t care what you already know. As Mr. Cannon says, “it will break you before it builds you back up,” I’ve never taken a class like this before, that truly challenges how you think and asks why you think. Every lecture and conversation is my favorite part of philosophy. It challenges my very train of thought and that is what makes it so special and such an amazing class.” This sums up what philosophy at BHS is all about perfectly! 

Now, why should you sign up to take philosophy next year? Milo Cocola was asked to explain why he signed up for philosophy and how it is different than he expected. He said, “I signed up for Philosophy because it’s a subject that I’ve always been interested in, and I had wanted to take it Freshman year before it was actually a class. Mr. Cannon is kind ofthe perfect teacher to teachthis subject as well. I was pleasantly surprised by the focus on debate and discussion in the class, as opposed to purely comprehension based work. There is no busy work in this class, only assignments that help you further your philosophical understanding of the world.” Milo is basically saying that this class isn’t anything like other BHS courses, and has a focus on what each individual wants to contribute to what we’re learning. 

So, if this article hasn’t yet convinced you to take philosophy, Stella Wantuck was asked if she would recommend taking this class, to which she responded, “Yes, l would recommend others to take this class. It is rather unique because l have not seen such a hands-on and interactive class before. We have lots of discussions and debate which makes it so unique. It is an opportunity to see other viewpoints on the world and to learn how to critically think.” So, whether you take Stella’s advice or not, philosophy is a great new experience at our school. 

Overall, philosophy has received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from the current students, Addie Sarette describing it as, “Rage bait, fun, and discussion based!” Whether you’ve considered taking philosophy or not, consider signing up for next year!