First Paper: Assignment.

Analyze the argument employed by Thornton in either the chapter on "Eros the Killer" or "The Best and Worst Thing" [aka 'women']; that is, you may chose one or the other but not both.

I do not want a summary of the chapter, rather I want you to lay out the steps of the argument and to evaluate the evidence that he presents to support his case.

• Do consider how he uses the concepts we have discussed in class [SSR, empathy, humanity, persuasion, etc.] to make his case.
• Bear in mind that his general idea is to show how these ideas served to explain the creation of western civilization. Does he make a compelling argument?
• You must substantiate your argument with specific reference to the documents that Thornton cites in the chapter. Half of the grade depends on the quality of the substantiation.
• Length: 600 words...I do realize this is not a lot, so you will have to re-write and then re-write again to make the most coherent and compelling statement.
• The paper is due Saturday, 28 January, at midnight.
• Molly and I are happy to meet with you. We will look at outlines, but will not comment on papers that are drafts. To set up an appointment you may email us at:
  • nic@uoregon.edu
  • mmaloney@uoreogon.edu
• Our plan is to review and return the papers to you my the time class meets on 1 February.