PHL112: Introduction to Modern Philosophy:

Some suggestions …

Consultation with & citation of primary and other secondary sources is optional, but highly recommended.  Note: All sources, including Jones (our texts), must be documented.  I prefer in text references to bibliographic entries but footnote style is also acceptable.  Various online resources are linked from the syllabus and on Moodle. The online forums are also good places to seek (and give ) inspiration and feedback I am actually available for consultation during my office hours, before and after class, and by appointment. 2500 words (approx. 10 double-spaced computer printed pages with 1" margins). Suggested topics ... or any thesis from primary or secondary sources.

Term Paper  Writing  Guidelines  &  Suggestions

• Plan A: Supercommentary: Examination of a thesis from the reading.
• Part I: In which the thesis is stated/quoted & explained by you.
• Part II: Defense of the Thesis: (1) author's argument(s) for the thesis stated/quoted & explained by you; (2) further elaboration and additional arguments for the thesis (optional).
• Part III: Evaluation of the Thesis: (1) evaluation/criticism of the arguments for; (2) independent objections against the thesis itself; (3) possible (or actual) rejoinders to the criticisms and objections.
• Part IV: Conclusion: (1) bottom line of the evaluation: thumbs up or down the thesis & why in your estimation; (2) and so what? (morals, further implications, alternatives, etc.)
• PLAN B: Examination of a Controversy or Topic (e.g., whether there are innate ideas).
• Part I: Stating the Issue: (1) State/quote & explain the (opposed) theses of 2 or more authors thereon (e.g. Leibniz & Locke); (2) preview your conclusion (e.g., I will argue that Leibniz is right & Locke's attack on innate ideas fails because blah blah blah. If you don't know what conclusion you'll come to, come back & write this preview last.)
• Part II: Arguing the Issue: (1) State/quote & explain the arguments of each author, their defenses of their own theses & criticisms of other's; (2) further elaboration (optional).
• Part III: Evaluation of the Issue: (1) evaluation/criticism of the authors' arguments; (2) independent objections to the theses themselves; (3) possible (or actual) rejoinders to the criticisms and objections.
• Part IV: Conclusion: (1) bottom line of the evaluation: thumbs up or down on the various theses & why in your estimation; (2) So what? Moral of the story: further implications, alternatives, compromise theses, etc.
• PLAN C: Other plans may be acceptable. No biographies or book reports. Run it by me if you're in doubt.