Writing Homework Help

Directions

Write any type of essay on one of the topics we covered so far. Most students write a thesis defense essay in which they explain an issue and defend their view (see below).

Suggested Topics (you are not limited to these topics)

Explain and evaluate one of the arguments for God’s existence (Chapter 8). Is the argument strong or weak?

Explain and evaluate Augustine/Aquinas’ Idea of Evil (Chapter 8). Is this concept of evil strong or weak?

Write a paper defending (or critiquing) rationalism or empiricism (Chapter 9).

Write a paper explaining and defending (or critiquing) Descarte’s Cogito and Method of Doubt (Chapter 9).

Try to persuade me that I am not in a dream or simulation as in The Matrix or Descartes’ Demon Thought Experiment.

Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism are good philosophies/religions.

Compare/Contrast any two philosophies.

Explain the different meanings of life and what, in your opinion, is the best meaning of life.

Stoicism is/is not a good philosophy to follow.

Explain one of the arguments for/against God’s Existence and then defend or critique it (i.e Ontological, Cosmological, Mystical Experience, Teleological, Evil Argument).

Explain Aristotle’s 4 Causes and why they are important today.

Evaluate Descartes’ Cogito.

Can we know anything for certain?

Which is best: rationalism or empiricism?

Explain and evaluate Kan’ts Metaphysical or Ethical Philosophies.

Defend or Critique Plato’s Theory of Forms.

Who was the best PreSocratic and why?

Compare and contrast Plato and Aristotle’s Theory of Forms.

What are the problems with moral relativism?

What are the problems with subjectivism?

For example, here is one student’s thesis statement for paper assignment, “Stoicism is an enriching philosophy for three primary reasons. First, stoicism helps us better understand and internalize what is and is not in our control, and there is great power in this. Second, stoicism is a form of cognitive therapy, which helps us better understand and control emotions. Third, stoicism helps us focus on internal thinking instead of external events, which is one key to happiness.”

Notice how this student’s thesis statement is clear and organizes/previews the essay well.The student went on to develop each of these three points in the essay. For point one, she gave examples of what is and is not in our control. She quoted Epictetus and Aurelius. She gave real world examples on how to apply point one (e.g. expecting longer lines and traffic). She developed point one in 3 paragraphs, about a page and a half. She developed point two in a similar way. Her paper ended with a summative conclusion.

*There are other ways you could write this essay, just let me know if you have different plans.

Essay Grading

Review the Video this week for more information on how to write a good philosophy essay. Also, the back of your textbook has a model paper.

1. Content 75% Did you accurately explain at least three themes of the philosophy? Did you superficially retell what you learned about this philosophy (average), or did you offer unique insights, applications, or criticisms (good to superior)? Did you avoid the logical fallacies and present sound arguments?

2. Readability & Style 15% Is your writing clear and well organized? If you read your essay aloud, is it clear? Does it flow well? Check for grammatical and spelling errors since these will decrease clarity.

3. Mechanics 10% MLA, 12 point font, double spaced, at least 3 full pages. You may write up to 4 pages.

*The Writing Center offers assistance with these types of written assignments.