How do you write a philosophy paper outline?
- a clear, concise introduction that states what the paper will argue and how.
- several arguments in favor of your position. These arguments should be fully developed, i.e., you should anticipate and refute possible counter-arguments to your points.
- a conclusion that summarizes your position and the way you have argued it.
How do you start an introduction for a philosophy paper?
How to write an introduction. Don’t begin with a very general opening statement: “Plato was one of the world’s greatest philosophers…” or “The definition of virtue is something that philosophers have debated for centuries…” Do briefly tell your reader what your paper is about and what your main thesis is.
What is a philosophical paper?
A philosophy paper consists of the reasoned defense of some claim. Your paper must offer an argument. It can’t consist in the mere report of your opinions, nor in a mere report of the opinions of the philosophers we discuss. You have to defend the claims you make. You have to offer reasons to believe them.
Can you say I in a philosophy paper?
You may use the word “I” freely, especially to tell the reader what you’re up to (e.g., “I’ve just explained why… Now I’m going to consider an argument that…”). Don’t worry about using the verb “is” or “to be” too much. In a philosophy paper, it’s OK to use this verb as much as you need to.
How do you end a philosophy paper?
The basic purpose of your conclusion is to restate your thesis and summarize your argument, but it should not just be a copy of your introduction. In your conclusion, you should make a final effort to convince the reader that you have both established your thesis and offered a cogent argument in its defense.
Are philosophy papers MLA or APA?
Citation Style for Philosophy There is no one standard citation style used for research papers in Philosophy. Commonly used styles are Chicago, MLA, or APA.