Epistemology and Identity (John Locke & Descartes)

Assignment:
For this assignment, you will write an essay that examines the epistemological theories we’ve
explored in class. Incorporating ideas from both of the readings we have covered since Essay 1
and possibly some your own experiences, develop an argument essay that explains the theories
you’re examining and proposes a thesis answering the following question:

 To what extent is an authentic and stable identity possible? Why?

Because you are required to engage with both theories, you will have to explain what each
theorist’s ideas suggest about identity and how they support your argument OR why they are
incorrect. Because these two theories are complete opposites and support different conceptions
of identity, you will likely side with one more than the other. Do not make the mistake, however,
of making this a compare/contrast paper. Instead, develop your own argument that answers the
thesis question (above) and use the ideas from the theories to support your claims; if you
disagree with one theorist for some reason, say as much and explain why you believe they are
incorrect.

Explaining why you take a specific stance on a topic is the most important part of the thesis
statement. If the thesis statement is weak, the paper will also likely be weak. You must also
include an essay map. Your essay map should make a statement outlining the major points you’ll
explore in the paper to prove the thesis; the thesis statement, the central claim of the paper, must
indicate to what extent a stable, authentic identity is possible and WHY you take this position.

The thesis will be written as one complete sentence, while the essay map will be written as
another, separate complete sentence.