Metaphysics: Guide for the Evaluative Essays

Students are expected to submit two single-page evaluative essays during the semester. Note: This is a strict length limit: one typed page, double-spaced translates roughly to a limit of 250 words.

Essays are due at the beginning of the class period in which the corresponding reading is discussed.

Each essay should be a critical evaluation of one point made in the corresponding reading. Given the limited length, you will need to select a very narrow topic for your critical evaluation. Students are encouraged to discuss their topics with me prior to writing. Your evaluation should include

(1) a brief recap of the claim presented in the reading;

(2) an explanation as to why the matter is problematic; and,

(3) either a brief outline of how the problem may be resolved or of the repercussions of the leaving the matter unsettled.

Ideally, your evaluative essays should be able to stand on their own – that is, based solely upon your essay someone unfamiliar with the class or subject matter should be able to grasp the issue at hand, why it is problematic, and an explanation of a possible resolution or of the problem’s repercussions.

As “experts,” those submitting essays will be expected to help guide our discussion of the articles on which they have written.