ESSAY QUESTION #2
Introduction to Comparative Politics, Fall 2004

Question:

Whose view of the ideal society is best equipped to serve the cause of “living within the truth,” Mill’s or Marx’s?

Please respond to this question. Your response should be no more than four (4), double-spaced, typed pages (normal font).

Note : This question tests your understanding of both a key concept ( Havel’s “living within the truth”) and Mill’s and Marx’s conceptions of attaining this goal. The question is challenging, but you can do it. Before writing anything, begin by reflecting on the meaning of the concept "living in the truth" and then think about how Mill or Marx might respond.

Here is what we will be looking for:

1. Your argument: Which of the two positions do you find most persuasive and why?
   
2. Your sense of the arguments that can be raised against you: In particular, keep in mind the consequences and shortcomings of subscribing to one or the other side’s position.
   
3. How adeptly you defend your position: The clarity and consistency of your argument; your use of readings, lectures, and discussions; and your ability to think for yourself.

When referring to your readings, feel free to use an easy citation form (e.g., author and page). It’s fine to use quotations, but indicate why you are using them. Quotations do not speak for themselves. If you come to a point where you are not sure what you are saying, we will likely not be sure what you are saying either. Explain yourself! Feel free to use the first-person pronoun (“I think that….). Finally, don’t forget that “’Tis a joy to be simple…”

I have no objection if you want to discuss this assignment with your classmates. However, your essay must be absolutely, completely, and unmistakably your own work.

Deadline: You must hand in your essay to your TA no later than class time on Wednesday, November 3. Late papers will be docked 1/3 of a grade for each day they are late.

Good luck!