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Writing Assignments (Fall 09)

For a variety of reasons (which we can discuss if you like) writing is very important for learning, particularly for learning philosophy. Thus, a significant portion of your grade will be composed of writing assignments. All writing assignments must be typed (unless they are written in class) and must follow the basic rules of grammar. Edit anything you write for me—and write more than one draft of even the simplest assignment. There is no pre-determined schedule for the writing assignments. They will be assigned as they are needed or as they appear to be appropriate given the advancement of the course. 25% of Grade

General Paper Requirements Rules for Re-Writing

Late Assignments: ARPs can be turned in up to one week late without penalty—after than they will not be accepted for a grade. Remember, however, that no late ARPs can be re-written. (Always talk with me about turning in late papers.)

The Assignments

First Writing Assignment

Due: Wed. September 2^nd

This is your first writing assignment—so, you are getting a slightly longer period in which to write it (thanks in part to Labor Day) and I am going to give you more detailed directions than normal. Remember the basic writing guidelines outlined in the syllabus and remember to edit your work!

You will be assigned ONE of the following two prompts to write on:

1. Choose one of the proposed definitions of piety that Euthyphro puts forward. Explain how and why Socrates criticizes that particular definition. Then, use your explanation to put forward an answer to the following question: what is Socrates looking for in a definition? (Or, what is a good definition according to Socrates?) Consider: what does Socrates’ understanding of the nature of definition (as you have described it) assume about the nature of the world and our ability to understand and live in it?

As you are developing your essay make sure you do the following:

1. Develop a clear thesis. The question of this prompt has to do with the nature of definition—so, your thesis should make clear reference to this. The prompt also makes reference to a particular definition proposed by Euthyphro (your choice) and Socrates’ criticism, so your thesis can also make reference to that. For example: “Socrates believes that good definitions have this form….as is clear in his critique of Euthyphro’s attempted definition of piety at…” Something like that, but better.
2. When examining Socrates’ critique of the definition, make sure you replicate the structure of the argument as clearly as possible. Think of it schematically—what do we claim first, second, third, etc. How does all of this lead to the conclusion?

2. Develop a thesis that responds to the following questions: is Socrates trying to teach Euthyphro something in this dialogue? If so, then what is Socrates’ trying to teach Euthyphro, and what is so important about this topic? If not, then who is teaching who? Or, if no teaching is going on, then what is the point of this dialogue?

As you are developing your essay make sure you do the following:

1. Develop a clear thesis. Your thesis should make it clear what you think is the answer to the above prompt and give some indication of why you think it.
2. Make clear and detailed reference to the text (feel free to quote, but don’t quote too much). That is, find textual evidence for your thesis. If you think Socrates is trying to teach Euthyphro that killing children is wrong, then find some evidence in the text that this is the case (it would be hard, I think)!
3. Do not neglect the issue of significance. Keep in mind the context of the dialogue, and keep it in mind for your readers.

General Comments:

I am interesting in your own reflections here, not in what other people think. Further, while each prompt requires you to tell me something about the dialogue DO NOT spend the whole paper merely summarizing what occurs in the dialogue or giving me a cliffnotes version of the material. I want to see you ANALYZE the work—think it through.

If you plagiarize you will fail the assignment and cannot re-write. My suggestion, to help avoid plagiarism, is to avoid consulting any outside sources. Just rely on the text, class notes, and your own fine mind.

Finally, this is your first paper for me. We are still getting to know one another. Take it seriously, of course—but don’t freak out. Any questions email or stop by the office.