Overview
Papers should be focused, 800-word, response essays on at least one of the assigned readings that we’ve already covered. If you’d like to write on an upcoming topic, you must wait until we cover the subject in class. In your paper, you should take a position on a central topic (but not necessarily the final conclusion) from one of the philosophers we've read by critically engaging with the author’s arguments and critically responding to it. The thesis of the paper should either defend the author’s position on this topic from a potential objection or criticize the author’s position for failing to accommodate one; in other words, your paper will either support or reject a claim, assumption, or conclusion made by the author. Remember that it isn’t acceptable to merely disagree with an author’s final conclusion. You must explain where the argument goes wrong by providing good reasons. I recommend you pick a single point to analyze. (For example, each day of class we may cover 4-6 distinct ideas in a given chapter of an author's work. So think about one idea to write about from one day's lecture.)
The word length is the minimum and maximum required number of words for the essay. Part of the assignment is to write a coherent essay that fits 800 words. You should never add long quotes or meaningless filler sentences to reach 800 words. If you are struggling to whittle your paper down to 800 words, it might be because your position is too broad. Make sure to choose a position that is narrow enough to satisfyingly discuss in 800 words. Try to paraphrase the author in your own words in lieu of quotation when appropriate, although some direct quotes are required in this assignment. Every unique attribution to the author must be cited specifically to the page number that is being referenced.
The use of additional sources outside of the reading list is discouraged for this paper. However, you should make reference to the reading assignment under analysis, and you must include in-text citations like this: (Descartes 35). Do not forget to proofread your paper before you submit it!
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You should format your paper as follows:- 800 words
- Header should include your name and date of submission.
- 12 pt. Times New Roman font only
- 1-inch margins on all sides
- Double-spaced
- Limit intro and conclusion paragraphs to only 2-3 sentences, max.
- At least one short, relevant quote in every body paragraph with in-text citation.
- Include all relevant in-text citations that include the author and page number of the reference from the reading provided in Canvas.
- Bibliography is not necessary.