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:

1. ‘The world is becoming less of a global village and more of a tribal jungle.’ Critically assess this viewpoint.

2. Consider the view that ‘We need to move more aggressively to a metropolis based on buses and bikes.’

3. 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.

4. To what extent is one’s thought determined by one’s milieu?

5. ‘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:

1. The effective formulation of a Thesis – stated clearly in the introduction;

2. Arguments (reasons and evidence) set out in support and defense of Thesis;

3. Careful critical consideration and evaluation of counter-arguments and counter-examples (objections to Thesis);

4. Refutation of Counter-Arguments i.e. Replies to challenging Objections;

5. 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