CJC World Philosophy Day Essay Writing Competition 2023
Organized in celebration of World Philosophy Day, 16th November 2023
The contemporary philosopher, Anthony Grayling, believes that philosophy should play a useful role in society and public policy (not just in academia).
A philosophy essay by its very nature involves critical thinking, logical reasoning and conceptual analysis skills – as critical thinking and rational argumentation are characteristic methods of philosophical inquiry and analysis.
Write an essay in response to ONE of the following questions:
- ‘The world is becoming less of a global village and more of a tribal jungle.’ Critically assess this viewpoint.
- Consider the view that ‘We need to move more aggressively to a metropolis based on buses and bikes.’
- Given our addiction to digital devices, ‘We are not looking, not thinking; we are walking around in some kind of fog, in a trance, like zombies.’ Comment.
- To what extent is one’s thought determined by one’s milieu?
- ‘We will gain power over our fates.’ Wishful thinking or a plausible prospect?
Guidelines and requirements for writing your Philosophy Essay:
- Length of Essay: At least 800 to 1500 words (feel free to exceed if need be);
- Your essay is an argumentative defense of your adopted Thesis – in which the central claim is clearly stated, explained and analyzed; arguments are rationally presented in support of the thesis; possible objections (counter-arguments) are fairly considered, objectively evaluated, and rationally refuted.
Your philosophical essay thus has five component parts:
- The effective formulation of a Thesis – stated clearly in the introduction;
- Arguments (reasons and evidence) set out in support and defense of Thesis;
- Careful critical consideration and evaluation of counter-arguments and counter-examples (objections to Thesis);
- Refutation of Counter-Arguments i.e. Replies to challenging Objections;
- Effective Conclusion – final thoughts / closing remarks;
NOTE: Include, where appropriate, possible creative solutions.
Submit your essay in hard copy as a Word Document. (Times New Roman, font size 12) to Mr David Fahy’s pigeon hole (C2)
Indicate on the cover page: Name in full; Identity Number, and Tutorial Group
Declaration – state: ‘This essay is my own work’ – and sign
Submission Date: Friday 12th January, 2024