Thesis must include— “In this essay I will discuss….”
Debate #3: Epistemology
Question: Is objectivity the best way to know the truth about [empirical] reality?
Choose one from these Positions FOR Objectivity:
Descartes’ Rationalism + Hume’s Empiricism = Scientific Method
Marx’s Historical Materialism / Ideology Critique
Choose one from these Positions AGAINST Objectivity:
Nietzsche’s Existential Perspectivism (Subjectivity)
Abram’s Phenomenology (Intersubjectivity)
Hence, these are the possible debate options: (select one for your essay)
Scientific Method vs Perspectivism
Scientific Method vs Phenomenology
Historical Materialism vs Perspectivism
Historical Materialism vs Phenomenology
PROMPT:
Write an 800-900 word essay in which you argue FOR or AGAINST the conclusion that objectivity is the best way to know the truth about reality. Use one well-developed example to make your case. Use (only) texts assigned or discussed in this class to make your argument.
(Recommended) USE THIS PARAGRAPH OUTLINE:
Introduction:
(a) Briefly distinguish the two ways of getting at the truth about reality which you will take up in your essay: “objectivity,” “subjectivity,” and/or “intersubjectivity.”
(b) State & HIGHLIGHT your thesis clearly, indicating the position you will take for or against objectivity and the opposition you will take up in response to your argument.
(c) Preview: Promise to demonstrate the strength of [your position] over [your opposition’s position] by comparing and contrasting their views on [the truth about example].
2. Argument for your position: Explain how your position reveals truth in general. Develop (in depth) an example that supports your thesis: This is the truth about X.
3. Consider your opposition: Explain how the opposition’s position reveals the truth in general. Using the same example provide a contrasting (in depth) depiction of the truth about X.
4. Analysis: Compare & Contrast:
(a) Explain the truth revealed by your position that is not revealed by the opposition’s position; and
(b) consider the truth revealed by your opposition’s position that is not revealed by your position.
5. Conclude with a comparative judgment & implications:
(a) State the comparative advantage your position has over the other; and
(b) speculate about the good consequences that will follow from it.