Conceptual Analysis

For the conceptual analysis essay, you will need to submit a 2-3 page essay analyzing the various definitions of identity and the self that John Locke discusses in Of Identity and Difference. The term identity in this context refers to what makes a particular thing a particular thing. Or what makes a particular thing different from something else. A pdf copy of the reading is provided above.

To present your analysis, you will need to:

Identify several definitions Locke puts forward for identity and what it means to be a self. In your essay you should discuss each definition separately.
Discuss how each definition or concept is broken down into component terms. Are these terms necessary and/or sufficient to define the concept of identity/self?
Once you identify a particular definition and the terms that define the concept, discuss why Locke doesn’t accept this particular definition. If he uses any counterexamples to justify rejecting the particular definition, these should be noted in the analysis.
Finally, in relation to the definitions you chose, what counterexamples can you think of that would require a redefinition of the concept?
Format Requirements:

Length: 2-3 pages
Commonly used font (Times New Roman, Calibri, etc.)
12-pt font
No outside sources
Cite the page number when quoting from the text. Formal citations/bibliography is not necessary for this project.
Remember, there are three possible grades: failed, passing, and fully-satisfactory.

This is important: You should not think of me as the audience for your paper, although of course I will be the one reading it. As you write you should be thinking of an intelligent peer who is not in our course as your audience. So, if you introduce technical terms they must be defined, for example. If youre thinking of me as your audience you will tend to gloss over details, but part of what Im looking for is whether you can clearly and precisely explain philosophical distinctions and arguments; so the details matter.

This is not a research paper. The only text you need to conduct the analysis is the one provided. Since this assignment is intended to demonstrate your ability to analyze concepts, do not use outside sources to aid in your analysis.

This is not an expressive paper. Theres nothing wrong with a clever turn of phrase or extended metaphor, but in general you should prioritize clarity and concision over ornate language. Be more prosaic than poetic.

It is a very good idea to meet with me during office hours or by zoom to either talk through your ideas or go over a draft of your paper. Likewise, it is an excellent idea to bring a draft to the writing center.

Here are two links to websites giving general advice on writing philosophy papers: Pryors Guidelines (http://www.jimpryor.net/teaching/guidelines/writing.html), Kinds Guidelines (http://www1.cmc.edu/pages/faculty/AKind/Intro01s/writing.htm). These may be helpful, but nothing in these links should override what I have said explicitly in this prompt.

I know that every one of you wants to be honest and conduct yourself with integrity. Plagiarism, which will result in failing the assignment, often happens when students are afraid to ask for help, procrastinate due to anxiety, and wind up acting out of character due to pressure. Im begging you to start early and come to office hours for help. It is expected that some of you will submit papers that need revision, and you will have the opportunity to do that. Dont be afraid to take some intellectual risks. We learn by trial and error even if the education system is not set up that way.

Links for writing > (http://www.jimpryor.net/teaching/guidelines/writing.html),
(http://www1.cmc.edu/pages/faculty/AKind/Intro01s/writing.htm)

I’ve attached the reading below.

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