Option 1: Academic Research Paper “A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. It is, perhaps, helpful to think of the research paper as a living thing, which grows and changes as the student explores, interprets, and evaluates sources related to a specific topic. Primary and secondary sources are the heart of a research paper, and provide its nourishment; without the support of and interaction with these sources, the research paper would morph into a different genre of writing (e.g., an encyclopedic article). The research paper serves not only to further the field in which it is written, but also to provide the student with an exceptional opportunity to increase her knowledge in that field.” You will write an academic research paper. This assignment will allow you to put together the various writing skills we have worked on throughout the semester. You will construct your own argument that responds to a question that you develop (after consultation with me). Your research paper should address the topic of your choice within the realm of political science, including but not limited to: governance, democratization, the breakdown of democracy, contentious politics and resistance, citizenship, political participation, development, political economy, and nationalism. You will develop your own argument and support it with evidence gleaned from your own research. In the process, you will practice identifying appropriate sources and synthesizing the information presented. Instructions Craft an 8- to 10-page double-spaced paper in the style of your choice (academic research paper or another of the types of writing described in Option 2 above). As part of the Practicing Political Science Short Activities, you will brainstorm topics and research questions, and identify potential sources and draft a literature review. You should be able to use what you write for these activities in your final writing assignment, regardless of which option you choose. The page requirement does not include a title page (if you include one) or your works cited page. Also note that eight pages means that you write until the end of the eighth page, not the start of it. You will complete two rough drafts before submitting the final draft of your paper. You will receive feedback both from me and a classmate on each draft.