essay that Defining a Controversial Concept
We’ve been talking a lot about warrants and the necessity of shared understanding of concepts associated with controversial issues. And through these discussions. one thing has become abundantly clear: we don’t all see eye-to-eye on definitions of complex terms. And, as we’ve seen, not sharing common ground (like an agreed upon
definition) can lead to some pretty wild misunderstandings.
So let’s practice working definition into our argument. in order to ensure that our audience is on the same page with our references and ideas. This way. the audience can understand what we are saying. and make a more informed opinion as to whether they agree with as or not.
In a 5-7 page essay, I want you to argue a definition of a controversial term/concept and explain why this definition is best. You must also use at least three credible sources to back up your argument. These sources can help you to discuss the relevance of your chosen definition (proving it to be controversial or ambiguous, or at least needing of a new definition), and/or provide evidence to support your argument. I encourage you to include the larger issues connected with the term in order to provide a context for the reader as to why such a definition is important.
Possible terms/phrases include (but are not limited to):
– Rioters/ Looters – Smart/ Dumb – Beauty
– Motherhood – Intoxicated – Spirituality
– At-risk or unsafe – Justice – Traitor
– Poverty – Equality – Euthanasia
– Pornographic – Feminism
– Drugs – Freedom of Speech
– Gender – Success
