Phil 327

Short Paper

Select ONE of the following articles:

(2)    Davis “Rape, Racism and the Myth of the Black Rapist”

(3)    Hopkins “Gender Treachery: Homophobia, Masculinity, and Threatened Identities”

(4)    *Trujillo “Chicana Lesbians: Fear and Loathing in the Chicano Community”

Write a well-organized, well-written essay (three pages, double-spaced). The essay should include an introductory paragraph which states your thesis and outlines the overall structure of your paper.

(1)    Briefly explain the main ideas developed in the article. (You may have to prioritize the issues that you feel are the most important). Does the author give reasons for his/her views? What are they?

SUGGESTION: Read the article more than once!!! Read it IN LEVELS.

(2)    Critically assess the position adopted by the author. Do you think that the author’s reasons are persuasive? Why or why not? Do you think that his/her position leaves out considerations that matter? Why or why not? NOTE: Give REASONS for your position – do NOT merely assert your opinion.

SUGGESTION: It is generally more effective to focus on one criticism and to develop it in greater depth than to focus on many criticisms, which you discuss only superficially.

NOTE: While you are to focus on only ONE article, you may also use other articles discussed in class to inform your criticisms. You must, however, provide references. Include a bibliography as well.           

For information on citing sources, click here!