In accordance with Arts and Sciences policy, writing assignments in upper-level philosophy courses will involve a minimum of 3,000 words of college-standard English. Because of the importance placed by the department on clarity of language as essential to clarity of thought, most courses will involve writing assignments in excess of the minimum. All major writing assignments will be criticized and returned for revision. The University of Hartford Philosophy Department is committed to the following principles: Respect for the history of philosophy. While we cannot repeat the past, we can learn from it. Even those philosophical positions that have not been found workable may reflect some insight that we can use. Philosophical pluralism. While the members of the Department have their own philosophical standpoints, we recognize that the orders are not simply wrong, but are worthy of respectful attention. Relevance to human life. Philosophy has a place in the University curriculum precisely because it makes a difference. Methodologically, it promotes clear, systematic thinking. Ethically, it emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's views and of carrying on respectful dialogue with those who disagree with us. Most importantly, it helps satisfy the human need for understanding and the constructive use of intelligence and imagination.