Introduction to Philosophy

Fall 2002: Paper Assignment #2

Due Monday, October 28, 2002 (in Class) – Monday/Wednesday 2:55pm section

Due Tuesday, October 29, 2002 (in Class) – Tuesday/Thursday 4:20pm section

The paper assignment requires you to answer the following question:

Is there progress in the Meno?

You may focus on Meno himself or on the dynamics of the dialogue as a whole. Be sure to be clear about the nature of progress and its relation to some specific goal or end in view.

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Important Guides for Paper: A Check List!

(1) Read general directions for papers on course syllabus. (e.g., must be 4-5 pages long, double spaced).

(2) Frame a clear thesis statement in response to one of the above questions. The thesis statement is the point you will be arguing.

(3) Remember the following outline

Introduction - state your thesis.

Body – support your thesis by way of argument.

Conclusion - summarize your argument.

(4) See my handout on guidelines for writing outlines for philosophy papers.

Suggestions on How to Write an Outline for a Philosophy Paper

(5) Explain crucial concepts as needed or supply textual information.

(6) Be sure to anticipate an objection to your argument and answer it. This should be done after you present your own argument, and right before the concluding paragraph of the paper. Hence, it is the final part of the body of your paper.