Your essay should offer a clear reconstruction of the core philosophical argument(s) and or concept(s) presented by the philosopher with attention to the context in which they wrote—as well as analyze the logic (critical thought) and rhetorical or written strategies used to develop their philosophical position(s).
The goal is not only to write about what the philosopher said but how they wrote and thought.
Your supporting paragraphs should address the claims the philosopher makes, any objections (counter-claims) considered and refuted, and the conclusions drawn. Analyze the approach to philosophy (such as the type of philosophy they are writing in metaphysics, epistemology, etc. or cultural traditions, Ancient Greek, Roman Catholic, etc.), the premises and named or unnamed assumptions, and types of evidence included.
Focus mainly on the primary source or main philosophical text that is the subject of your essay yet consult quality sources such as peer-reviewed journal articles or books to help you understand the philosopher’s argument(s) as well as the context in which he or she lived and the philosophical schools or traditions to which he or she belonged.
Aim to write more than a book report, which would simply be a summary; work to analyze how the philosopher’s work is put together both in thought and language.
Note: some of the philosophy provided in the online course shell are excerpts from longer works; using the assigned readings is sufficient for a paper of this length, yet you may wish to consult more from and/or the full-length original texts. Feel free to dialogue with your instructor about options and strategies.
(For additional paper guidance, see the UNC, Chapel Hill writing center guide below, specifically their advice for writing “argument reconstruction.”)
Target length: 4–5 pages (800–1,000 words)
Minimum sources required: One (1) primary source (the philosophical text your analysis focused on) plus at least one (1) secondary source (peer-reviewed article from a scholarly journal or book).