Why ToK?

In order to properly answer this question, you must first understand what this class is not.  This class is not a GPA booster.  This class is not a study period.  This class is not like any class you have ever taken.  Only one thing is required of you in order to progress in this class.  The one requirement is that you think, think, and then think some more (and there will be some writing involved).  You will not benefit from this class if you are preoccupied with a grade you may or may not receive.  The grade is not the goal.  Improving the way you think is the goal.  This grade does not matter.  Only logical, thoughtful and thorough self-reflection matters.

Theory of Knowledge is often called the "glue" of the IB curriculum.  Over the next two years, you will be bombarded with vast amounts of knowledge and rigorous course standards.  The purpose of ToK is to take all of your preexisting (and newly acquired) knowledge about Mathematics, Art, Natural Sciences, Human Sciences, History, and Ethics, and question it.  Question all of it.  Question methods.  Question theories.  Question assumptions.  Question conclusions.  Question questions?  I'll stop now.  Moving on. 

Self-reflection, critical thinking, and inquiry skills are three components that a successful ToK student develops throughout this course.  Everyday we will be discussing questions that do not have a correct answer.  There will be disagreements.  This is a good thing.  In fact, it's a great thing!  Without disagreement we can not properly address the knowledge issues at hand.  Lastly, I want this class to be enjoyable!  Everyday you will have the opportunity to contribute and express your very own ideas to the class.  I expect all of you to be provide the bulk of contributions during discussion.  My main role in ToK is to facilitate your development and progression as an active learner in order to improve the way you think, not to tell you what to think.  See you in class!

Have you submitted your paper to turnitin????

If you answered no to this question, please submit it in revision 2 for TOK Paper #1 immediately.  I know some of you emailed it to me but I want it submitted to turnitin as well so I can make more effective comments.  Eric Cap, Franco Bautista, Alex Chavez, Chris Emami, Aquaria Henderson, Trace Thomsen this means you!!!!

History KI

How does one's reasoning behind the recording of a historical event vary across different cultures?

Modify the above KI and post responses below.  We will go over them in class.  The best new KI gets a gold star!!

The (honest) truth about dishonesty

Do you agree with the ideas in this video?  Is a simple 'moral reminder' enough to keep us from cheating (even a  little)?  How can we keep the financial crisis from happening again? Can we? Comments appreciated!!

Free New York Trip!!! (essay contest)

Want a free trip to New York??  Write a 500-1000 word essay on the following topic:

In John Stossel's TV special and book of the same name, "No They Can't," Stossel makes the case that free people and free markets do a better job of solving problems than government.

Do you think he's right? Why or why not?

Please write a 500-1000 word essay on this topic, illustrating your position using a recent example of a problem private individuals solved where an attempted government solution failed OR a problem government solved where private individuals' attempts had failed. You must include at least one reference from John Stossel's "No They Can't" book or TV special.

Here is a link to the website! 

Rifkin RSAnimate

 some questions to consider:
1.  Do you agree or disagree with Rifkin's assessment and analysis of human nature (empathic vs. aggressive)? 
2. In what ways are modern day educational, political and economic structures set up that prevent us from reaching Rifkin’s idea of an “empathic civilization”?
3. What are some of the social, political, and historical implications of not realizing Rifkin’s vision for the future?
4. What personal connections can you make to illustrate your opinion of Rifkin’s main ideas?
5. Considering the implications considered in question 2, to what extent is Rifkin’s vision for the future an ethical obligation we have to future generations?
6. To what extent does culture hinder Rifkin's ultimate realization of an ultimately "empathic civilization?"

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTRIBUTE!!!

David Brooks TED Talk

Some questions to consider:
1. What personal connections can you make that illustrate some of Brooks' main ideas?
2. What connections to the different Areas of Knowledge does Brooks make in his talk?
3.  How does he view the relationship between emotion and reason?  How is his view different from that of many Enlightenment philosophers?