What This Document Is
This document outlines the requirements and suggested topics for the second paper in Humanities 115: Philosophical Perspectives on the Humanities, offered at the University of California, Santa Cruz. It serves as a guide for students preparing a substantial written assignment exploring core themes within the course’s philosophical framework. It details expectations regarding length, source material, and citation methods.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for any student enrolled in Humanities 115 currently working on, or preparing to begin, the second major paper. It clarifies the instructor’s expectations, helping you focus your research and writing efforts for optimal results. Reviewing this document *before* starting your paper will save you time and ensure you address all necessary components of the assignment. It’s particularly useful for students who benefit from clear guidelines and a range of potential research avenues.
Topics Covered
* Philosophical interpretations of mortality and suffering
* The nature of benefit, harm, and improvement – both individual and societal
* Rhetoric, public speaking, and the relationship between truth and persuasion
* Attributions of responsibility for human suffering: divine intervention, fate, or self-infliction
* Comparative analysis of philosophical viewpoints across different authors and texts
* Proper academic citation and referencing techniques
What This Document Provides
* Detailed instructions regarding paper length and due date
* A list of suggested paper topics designed to stimulate critical thinking
* Guidance on incorporating source material, including specific texts (Plato, Aristophanes, *The Iliad*)
* Specific citation guidelines for course materials (Stephanus numbers, line numbers, book/line references)
* Clarification on the use of external sources and bibliographic referencing.
