This Week's Assignment (10/22)

For this week's assignment, choose any two of the following thesis statements. For each of the two thesis statements that you choose, write an outline of logic and reasons supporting the thesis. Evaluate whether the thesis statement is one that could be supported and developed in a 10 page paper. Suggest how the thesis statement could be improved.

1. Google is a monopolist in violation of the US antitrust laws. The US Justice Department should prosecute Google and break up the company. For background see this article.

2. Under the First Amendment of the US Constitution, the government should be able to restrict speech by corporations to a greater extent than speech by individuals. For background see this editorial.

3. Professor Henry Louis Gates' conduct following questioning at his house in Cambridge clearly constituted "disorderly conduct" justifying his arrest. For background see this article.

4. The New York Times' coverage of the circumstances that led to Van Jones' resignation as White House "green jobs czar" and the outing of ACORN demonstrates that the Times is biased in favor of liberal political causes. For background see this piece.

5. President Obama will regret receiving and accepting the Nobel Peace Prize.