Write a paper (c. 5-6 pp. or 1500-1800 words) in which you discuss an idea or issue that appears somewhere in the selections from Wittgenstein. (If you’d prefer to write on Austin, see me and I will suggest an approach.)
Your paper will take a somewhat different form depending on whether it is an issue or an idea you discuss. The required elements for each sort are as follows:
• idea paper
• a general description of the idea
• a substantial discussion of three passages, each of which illustrates the idea in a different way or explores a different aspect of the idea
• a general discussion of what these passages together contribute to an understanding of the idea and what questions might still be left open
• issue paper
• a general introduction to the issue that notes its significance and how it arises
• a discussion of four passages, two for each side of the issue, that help to present that side (in any of a number of ways: by stating it, by providing an argument for it, by offering an example usable in such an argument, etc.)
• a discussion of what can be said for each side of the issue given your discussion of these passages
These elements are described in a way that suggests an outline for a paper, but that outline need not be followed if you see another way of giving each of these elements a significant place in your paper. These specifications are designed to open up a variety of different topics, but I’ll be happy to help you look for topics fitting them if nothing comes to mind.
Although I’ll be willing to accept your essay on paper, I’d prefer that you send a copy by e-mail (either as an attachment or in the body of a message). My address is helmang@wabash.edu.