PhilosophyPaper: What does it mean to be a philosopher
I. Thesis, Argument, and Conclusion. 700 words or so.
Goal: Produce a short argumentative piece including an expository section.
This should be your introduction (to the question/issue at hand), an explanation of the
fundamental traits of a philosopher, and then your argument section for Socrates.
Note: Your introduction should include an inclusive thesis for the whole paper. That
means, it must lay-out what you are trying to accomplish over the whole of the paper (ie,
both section I and II).
You must first explain what it means to be a philosopher. You need to identify and explain
three traits that embody what it means to be a philosopher. You can use all and only the
class material on canvas or in the textbook. You need to explain each trait without
reference to Socrates. You should use examples of the traits as well as explain the traits
themselves.
The next section of the first part of your paper should be your argumentative case for
Socrates. Remember, you will be using all the applicable material from Unit 1 to make your
case for whether Socrates should be considered a paradigmatic philosopher. How does
Socrates meet these standards (or criteria)? Make arguments and give evidence/support!
II. Final addendum/Your Epilogue: What about you? 500 words or so.
Goal: Answer these questions: Reflecting on the three traits above (from section I), am I a
philosopher? Why or Why not? Give examples/evidence. What do you, or could you, gain
from being a philosopher?
The paper must be 1200-1500 words long minimum (but can be longer).
You must CITE your sources! (You choose the style/format. There are paper writing
resources at the end of the instructions that can help with this among other aspects of
writing a paper).
There is a word minimum of 1200 words but a decent paper should be closer to 1400-
1500. There is no word maximum.
