Overview
Task
You will write four reflections on a reading of your choice from the previous three weeks of the course. This assignment aims to help you practice identifying and understanding the main argument in complex texts, articulating your evaluation of the argument, and supporting it with well-argued reasons. You will briefly analyze what you take to be one of the central arguments of the reading and then raise a positive or negative critique of it. Skills & Knowledge • Practice the ability to evaluate academic texts and complex arguments critically. • Practice articulating your view clearly, concisely, and with the support of well-argued reasons and examples. • Practice the ability to recognize connections and contrasts between different philosophical concepts. Criteria for Success • Formality: o Your reflection should be between 500-600 words. o It should be written with clarity and care. Make sure to edit after yourself to catch any grammar or spelling errors. o An easy way to structure your reflection is to separate it into two paragraphs: ? The first paragraph introduces and explains arguments or concepts that are the subject of your critique. ? The second paragraph evaluates and critiques arguments or concepts introduced earlier, centering your personal critical perspective. If you want to raise multiple points of critique, a separate paragraph should be dedicated to each. o Alternatively, if you want to discuss multiple arguments or concepts, you can use the following structure: ? Explanation of the concept/argument 1 ? Evaluation of the concept/argument 1 ? Explanation of the concept/argument 2 ? Evaluation of the concept/argument 2 • Comprehension: o Select a concept/argument/idea from the reading that is interesting to you. Demonstrate understanding of the chosen concept/idea/argument by briefly yet accurately summarizing it. Work closely with the reading by paraphrasing or citing the author. o Make sure you explain only those parts of the argument and concepts you will reflect on critically. Refrain from attempting to summarize an entire article or introducing concepts and arguments you will not return to in your reflection. • Reflection: o Evaluate the chosen concept/argument/idea by raising a positive or negative critique of it.
o Provide well-articulated reasons in support of your evaluation.Do not simply state your position, but explain why you hold it.Your critical perspective is the most important part of the reflection.
o In formulating the reasons in support of your critique, feel free to use any justifications from the class materials and discussion.