For you first paper, consider the essays, Anthropology and the Abnormal by Ruth Benedict, and Trying Out One’s New Sword by Mary Midgley. Consider which article you would most like to *critique (note: a critique is not merely taking down or dismissing or “destroying” an argument; rather, a critique examines whether or not the author is sufficiently engaged with counter arguments, objections, or other relevant information that might make their arguments better or worse in light of said information.
The structure of your paper will use the following format:
1st paragraph-Quickly summarize the argument of the essay you wish to critique. Make sure to accurately summarize the author’s position. Should be no more than 80-100 words
2nd paragraph-Target a particular passage in the reading. Then explain why this portion of the argument may have a flaw either in reasoning, evidence, or is incomplete in some way. You may offer a counter argument here, or say why another author might be more compelling (For example, if you are critiquing Ruth Benedict’s essay, you may wish to cite a point made by Midgley, or vice versa if you are critiquing Midgley’s essay). You may also add something to the author’s point by discussing evidence, or further reasoning. *Avoid appealing to your personal experience when making an argument.
3rd paragraph onwardAll remaining paragraphs will follow the same structure as the second paragraph.
*Note, this essay does not require an introduction or a conclusion, so don’t use up valuable time on them. Just summarize the argument of the essay you are critiquing, and then begin leveling your critique. Additionally, please note that this first paper is not a research project, so don’t quote anyone outside of the two author’s for this assignment.
Also, note that you are not to exceed 20% of the paper in either direct quotations or paraphrasing an author’s position. You may quickly summarize or quote an author, but if the overwhelming majority of your paper isn’t your own commentary and argument, you will be penalized.
Make sure to type up your argument in Word and upload the file into Canvas. The paper will pass through a Turnitin.com filter to check for plagiarized content.
For a general view what constitutes good philosophical writing, please visit this link: https://philosophy.fas.harvard.edu/files/phildept/files/brief_guide_to_writing_philosophy_paper.pdf
