Freud′s Theory of Unconsciousness
Write 2-4pages (with 1” margins, double spaced, and a standard 12pt font) on one assigned essay. Rather than having an overarching thesis of your own to defend (that is for argumentative essays and exams), this paper will have four distinct parts. Label them as such: Thesis, Argument, Objection, Evaluation. Because your only resource is shared readings, do not worry about formal citations. But do be sure to give page references (in parenthesis) for all quotes or direct paraphrases. Part I-Thesis: Choose a selection of text from one essay (no more than 3 sentences) that you think reflects the main conclusion of the essay. Quote it. Then, restate it in your own words. This section should be short. Just the quote and the matching paraphrase. Part II-Argument: Having identified the main conclusion, here you will outline the argument the author makes in defense of that conclusion. Do not outline the essay in the order it was written. Rewrite the argument in a logical order that makes the conclusion (at least somewhat) persuasive. No need for flowing paragraphs or elaborate transitions. This can be a numbered list or bullet points or an argument diagram. Be sure to make clear how pieces of the argument fit together, i.e., you might have indented levels of the outline. You can also include examples that help the argument. This section should probably be about a page, possibly two,long. Part III-Objection: Offer one possible objection to the position you just outlined. Don’t go easy on the original position; give one strong objection. Be sure to indicate where this objection clashes with the original. Does it challenge a particular part of the argument? Is it disagreeing with the definition of a key word? Is there some unintended and ignored consequence would undermine that view?You can come up with your own objection. Or you can use another assigned essay; you can quote or paraphrase someone else made, as long as your give proper credit and identify where the objection attacks and undermines the original point. Over the semester, try each way. This section should be a paragraph. Part IV- Evaluation: For the last paragraph or two, state which side you more agree with and give a reason why you think it the stronger position.Is the objection devastating? Or could the original philosopher defend themselves? Is there a particular piece of the argument you find most important? Is there something right, but incomplete or insufficient or less important about the objection? Etc. Here is where your voice and your ideas matter.