DESCRIPTION:

This seminar is open to CATS students in the areas of philosophical theology, systematic theology, and Christian ethics. Its purpose is to refine research and writing skills, with an eye toward publication. Students enrolled in the course must have a writing project in progress in theology, philosophy (Anglo-American only), or ethics. The course will incorporate attention to the nature of reasoning and strategies for publication (e.g., how to write a book proposal). This course is appropriate for refining a paper from a previous course for publication and for students in the dissertation phase of their programs. Maximum, 9 students.

The class will meet once a week for a three-hour session. Except for the first session, each class period will be devoted to detailed discussion and critique of one student's paper.

Gowers, Ernest. The Complete Plain Words. Rev. ed. David Godine Publisher, 1988.

Murphy, Nancey. Reasoning and Rhetoric in Religion. Wipf & Stock, 2001.

Turabian, Kate. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 6th ed. University of Chicago Press, 1996.

Fowler, H. W. A Dictionary of Modern English Usage. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 1983.

Students' projects will be distributed to all class members in advance of the session in which they are to be discussed. All participants will prepare a detailed written critique that attends to both content and form. Projects will then be revised in light of student critiques and in consultation with the professor.

It is essential that all students who intend to enroll in this seminar contact the instructor before the end of Fall term (December 13) so their papers can be scheduled for discussion. Class size is strictly limited and students will be granted admission on a first-come, first-served basis.