Short Research Paper : Reformation Christian Theology and Political Philosophy Assignment Instructions
Overview
This assignment is an open research project, meaning that you are expected to locate, use, and cite support outside of the course readings. The goal of this short paper is to provide a concise, well-reasoned analysis of the topics presented. You should not merely offer unfounded opinion or subjective discussion of the topics. Superficiality is a danger with this topic as it would be easy to write a short paper without reaching the substance of the discussion. Better papers will demonstrate that you sufficiently pondered the ideas at issue, as well as their appropriate alternatives, reflected through your insightful recognition, understanding and well-reasoned approach to them.
Instructions
Concise writing is often more demanding than expansive writing. Your essay should answer the following question:
“How do the concepts of Natural and Revealed Law affect American Political Philosophy?”
Be sure to mention Augustine, Aquinas, or Maimonides (the Natural and Revealed Law philosophers studied earlier in the course) and include some excerpts of their writings from the course text with references.
Also, include some excerpts from the writings of the American Founders, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Federalist Papers.
Furthermore, specify the exact requirements of the assignment. Items to include are outlined as follows:
· Length of assignment (2 pages; 1-inch margins. Time Roman 12 pt. and double-space; if you use a title page and abstract, it will be excluded from the page count)
· Format of assignment is APA
· At least 5 scholarly sources (peer-reviewed academic journal articles or books published by university presses) are required, including 1 carefully, interpreted scripture reference appropriate for the thesis of your essay.
· Acceptable sources (e.g. scholarly articles published within the last five years)
· The paper must be logical and follow the informal argument of the persuasive essay. This format requires an approximately 25-word thesis statement at the end of 1st paragraph, followed by short 4–5-sentence paragraphs. Each paragraph must include a thoughtful topic sentence that is conceptually connected to the thesis statement and supported by 1–2 insightful reasons.
· Your analysis must employ critical thinking techniques, such as identifying and evaluating the philosopher’s arguments; comparing and contrasting philosophical positions; and anticipating opposing views to your interpretations and ideas.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.
