A Method for Analyzing Philosophical Text

1. Include a statement about what is being argued or discussed.

A. State the thesis or focus of the essay.
B. Your assessment of persuasiveness.

2.  Consider how it is being argued or discussed.

A. State key points made or issues raised.
B. Structure?

3. Include observations about the use of language.

A. Note value-laden, biased, or prejudicial language.
B. Watch use of metaphors and connotation of words.
C. Note degree of clarity in use of language.

4. Set out strengths

A. Note arguments that best support the thesis.
B. Note valuable points or insights.
C. Powerful uses of language? Statistics? Sources? Pertinent examples?

5. Set out the weaknesses

A. Note any that diminish the quality of the essay.
B. Contradictions? Inconsistencies?
C. Poor statistics? Speculation? Unsupported claims? Unfounded assumptions?

6.  Assess article for persuasiveness.

A. Watch for omissions.
B. See if evidence is strong.
C. Notice if language is biased.
D. Decide if weaknesses are great.
E. See if relevant ethical or cultural themes were developed.
F. Watch for questionable assumptions.