Government 2302
Writing Assignments
Fundamentals of Democracy
Due Dates:
MW Classes - Monday March 7th
TR Classes - Tuesday, March 8th
 

Note: Both of these responses should be typed - one inch margins, 12 point font, and double spaced.

ASSIGNMENT #1
Opinion Editorial
Benjamin Barber

Read the article linked below and then do the following:

http://www.benjaminbarber.com/oped2.html

First, your paper should summarize Barber’s the main arguments - he lists four, but, in your own words explain what he is saying. This section should be about one page in length.

Second, evaluate Barber’s arguments - is he right or wrong?  Which arguments?  Is his reasoning logical and his analysis clear? How so, and why or why not?  This section is your response to Barber’s main ideas. Be sure you explain your own ideas and analysis clearly and cogently.  This section should also be about one page in length.

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ASSIGNMENT #2
Speech at the World Movement for Democracy Conference
Amartya Sen

Read the article linked below and then do the following:

http://www.wmd.org/conference/sen.html

First, list and summarize the main arguments that Sen makes in this article. There are number of them, so be sure to identify the ones you think are the most important.  Be sure you summarize and explain Sen's argument that democracy is a universal value.  This section should be no less than one page in length

Second, evaluate Sen’s arguments - is he correct? Why or why not?  He offers comparisons between Asian and Western concepts of democracy and what is important; do you see any contradictions here, or is his argument that there is no real difference convincing? Why?  Is Sen arguing for procedural or substantive democracy?  Explain.  This section should also be no less than one page in length.