I recommend a length requirement, say one page. And how do you deal with AI? Perhaps open it up to AI with each participant asking for a short essay on a particular uniform subject, but in different ways. For example, one asks for an essay "on the nature of being" and another asking "what is being". That way the contest reduces to the cleverness of the request. Just a thought. :smile: — jgill

@jgill Sorry, I only responded briefly to the important point of how to deal with or use AI.

I don't know much about it. Apparently, students are finding it extremely useful in writing essays.
Instead of practising writing skills and coming up with own ideas.

How it can be used in education as a tool in EFL:
https://educraft.tech/chatgpt-a-game-changing-powerful-ai-for-efl-5-ways-to-use-it/

How to identify use of AI in an essay:
https://educraft.tech/identifying-ai-written-essays/

@Jamal Is there a TPF policy on AI - it's use and abuse?

The advice, as in writing short stories, is that before you write a philosophy essay, you should read a variety. How different topics are approached. Types of essay include the expository and the argumentative.

I haven't read a philosophy essay in a while. However, I have read articles in Philosophy Now. You can read 4 for free, per month: https://philosophynow.org/

For examples of essays in a wide range of philosophy categories:
https://1000wordphilosophy.com/all-essays/

Here's an 1,000 word essay in text and audio. In Philosophy of Religion:
https://1000wordphilosophy.com/2024/11/21/james-mystical-experience/

***
I'd be interested to hear from others as to what kind of philosophy essays/articles they have read or are attracted to. Also, if they have written one recently. What are the stumbling blocks to writing or reading an essay? What puts you off? Word count?

Any recommendations for websites with thought-provoking, substantive, exploratory articles?
Looking for inspiration and some heat. It's snowing out and I'm on the point of hibernation :yawn:

It's a nice idea. I hope it gets plenty of interest and participation. You and, if willing, Moliere (who is a moderator) can lead, and I'll do anything that you are unable to do yourselves, like creating categories. I suppose we need a new category; once that's created you can go ahead and post in it. — Jamal

Thanks, Jamal, for your support and approval. Much appreciated :smile:

I'm delighted to see that, so far,12 people have voted. To participate as:
Writer - 8%
Reader - 50%
Both - 42%

I hope that more can contribute their ideas and views. There are plenty things to consider and get as near a good fit as possible. To make it work and be attractive to all, or mostly all.

As for me taking a lead...

Yes, that would make sense. I am keen to follow this idea through - along with @Moliere and any others more experienced in the field. However...given my uneven participation in TPF for a variety of reasons - including poor health - I am not convinced of my reliability or capacity, at any given time.

As things stand, I have been resorting to audio rather than reading text. Hey, now there's an idea.
Podcasts?! Or possibly I could try text-to-speech.

My point is:
I think it would be an idea to have more than 2 'hosts' of this challenging activity.
Collaborating to ensure its success. Having no previous experience, I'm not sure how this would work.

I look forward to hearing from @Moliere as to his willingness and the next step. Thanks, again!

Thanks for your thoughts. I take it you would like the Activity to happen.

I hope others respond better than I can, right now. It's time for :yawn:
But perhaps - as in the Literary Activity - there could be a word limit set?

AI - I suppose could enter the picture but I'm not keen.
I want to hear the voice of human thought and creativity.

Good night!
Don't forget to vote. If you want the Activity to happen, click Yes not Maybe at 2nd question. My fault in formatting :smile:

I probably wouldn't write one, my essay skills have yet to evolve from early grade school (Paragraph 1: Introduction; Paragraphs 2 - 4: Three supporting reasons, Paragraph 5: Conclusion). — Outlander

That sounds like a perfectly good structure to me!

I think that the writing also depends on a person's approach to philosophy.
My idea would be for it to include more than the academic. There is a wide spectrum, as obvious in the threads. We are limited only by our imagination!

The variations in outlook are fascinating. The different ways of thinking.
I think it could be quite inspiring. If we take a theme, like the OPs 'Imagination' and run with it.

'Imagination’. We intend this topic to be understood broadly, so as to include related issues in any area of philosophy and from any philosophical tradition.'

got to remember running a competition requires a good amount of time and coordination. — Outlander

Yes, I know and appreciate all the effort that has gone into the Literary Activity over the years. It used to happen twice a year. I think a Philosophy Activity could fill a gap, very nicely. And not hosted by the same people, probably, so a lighter load.

I assume many of the TPF eldership have somewhat busy personal lives, holidays not helping — Outlander

It wouldn't be able to go ahead without the approval of admin @Jamal @fdrake and then the support of any mods or any other volunteers.

But, first, they would need to be persuaded that TPF posters think it is a good idea and would participate. Hence, the thread discussion and poll to show level of interest.

I hope others join in and let their views be known.

Didn't there used to be an "Articles" link at the top of the forum — Outlander

Yes.

Good idea either way. — Outlander

Hope you've voted! :smile:

Pretty sure fdrake would just win every time though — Outlander

No, he wouldn't. Even if he is a winner, the proposal - right now - is not to have a voting system.

I think feedback alone is enough, with maybe a thread after the fact where people share why they thought this or that essay was better, but it's not strictly a competition. — Moliere

Should we have a vote on it?

Thanks for all your support and ideas. I've enjoyed this more than I thought!

:yikes:
5 along. 2 down.
It actually says 'Yikes!'

Absolutely. My Goodness, I think I've found my soulmate :starstruck: :wink:

And the writers to be anonymous as in the Literary Activity, yes?
Guessing the author, part of the fun...at the end?

I think feedback alone is enough, with maybe a thread after the fact where people share why they thought this or that essay was better, but it's not strictly a competition. — Moliere

Yes, I totally agree.

Odd that this is relevant, and weird to quote myself, but in response to Janus question "Why doesn't the Nobel offer a philosophy prize?"" — Moliere

Gotta love the humour and truth of it all...
I think that hits the right tone. Serious fun. Sunning ourselves in pure enlightenment. Relatively speaking :fire: Cue lightbulb joke...

OK. I agree.

How do you think any evaluating/ judging would be done?
If a competition, then some kind of voting system? If a less formal 'activity', then would the feedback alone be enough?

I should probably have also asked:
As a participant would you give Feedback?
I think that would be important.

:up:

For all those choosing 'Maybe' what would it depend on?

:smile:
Yes, I wouldn't feel up to writing an essay - as yet - but would love to read them.

I am pretty sure that there will be some who would relish the challenge and good- natured rivalry. It would be less aggravation and more inclusive than a Debate. The Feedback would be interesting. :cool:

If the event took place in say June 2025 - there would be plenty of time...or sooner if passion kicks in :fire:

I think it would be good for both beginners and the more experienced.
To be challenged in ways other than writing in a thread. This would give people a chance to be creative and test themselves against others. Or simply for own enjoyment.That I would love to read :sparkle:

For revision, if needed! Or if other ways are better, suggestions welcome :up:

How to Read Philosophy
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/texts/pryor-guidelines-on-reading-philosophy

How to Write Philosophy
Includes 7 links - one pdf by the highly recommended Pryor.
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/resources/writing

As a student, many years ago, I found Jim Pryor's Guidelines invaluable.

But I guess any TPF essay does not need to be of the academic type?
Your thoughts welcome...

Read Philosophy Essays

Essays and videos on philosophy, the history of ideas, ethics and life’s big questions

https://aeon.co/philosophy

Write a Philosophy Essay
https://royalinstitutephilosophy.org/news/think-essay-prize

The Royal Institute of Philosophy is very pleased to announce this year’s essay competition for our journal Think.

Think is our publication designed to be fully accessible to all audiences, while still challenging its readers. The winning essay submission will be published alongside articles from leading philosophers from across the world.

We are looking for essays of no more than 1,200 words, engaging with one of the following questions*:

1. Plato suggests we are trapped in a world of shadows and only philosophical reflection can provide knowledge. Is there any truth to this view?

2. Does the existence of evil provide good evidence God does not exist?

3. Do ‘objective values’ exist?

4. Could a person migrate from one human body to another, as some movies suggest (e.g. Freaky Friday)?

5. What ethical responsibilities do we have towards future generations (e.g., creating a cleaner environment, reducing pollution)?
If you believe we don’t have these responsibilities, explain why?

6. Do we have freedom of speech? Should we?

* If you are studying Philosophy, you may want to particularly engage with questions 1, 2 or 3. However, each applicant is welcome to answer any of the six questions.

The winner will be published in an upcoming issue of Think, the shortlisted candidates will win a year’s free subscription to the journal, and other prizes will be awarded to all those who make the longlist.

Your essay submission will be assessed for academic merit and rigour. We look forward to receiving your submission via this link.

Please read the Rules of Entry below before completing the form.

The Closing Date for Submissions is Tuesday 22nd April, 2025.
***

[Perhaps too easy, only for 15-18yr olds]

Philosophy Essay Competition

https://royalinstitutephilosophy.org/news/imagination-our-2024-philosophy-essay-prize-topic/

Each year the Royal Institute of Philosophy holds the Philosophy Essay Prize competition. The winner will receive £2,500 and their essay will be published in October 2025 issue of Philosophy.

The topic for this year’s prize is ‘Imagination’. We intend this topic to be understood broadly, so as to include related issues in any area of philosophy and from any philosophical tradition.

The submission deadline is 30 November 2024 23:59 GMT.

How cool is that! How hard can it be? :chin:

@Jamal @fdrake and Mods - is this a good idea, or not?

How about TPF having our very own annual Philosophy Competition or Activity? Who would host it? Wow! Who would judge and how ? When?

You too? :smile: :up:
We should swap student day stories. Hmmm. Then again...

Dare I ask how your story-telling is coming along?
I'm sure you could give us all guidance/lessons in 'How to Write a Short Story' :cool:
Or point the way...a Jim Pryor for literature :chin:

How to Read Philosophy
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/texts/pryor-guidelines-on-reading-philosophy

How to Write Philosophy
Includes 7 links - one pdf by the highly recommended Pryor.
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/resources/writing

As a student, many years ago, I found Jim Pryor's Guidelines invaluable.

Duplicate. Deleted.

This is a copy and paste from the Literary Activity Discussion. I think part of my one of my posts is worthwhile to save and keep easily accessible. In response to @L'éléphant. From: https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/94913

Philosophy is not known for its creativity. Depending on what and how it is read. However, it does use imagination and promotes analytical skills - transferable to other spheres. Like here! There is an internal dialogue and exchange of ideas. The same kind of questions can be asked, as of any story. The 5 W's and H. The Who, What, When, Where, Why - and How.

[There are many excellent resources available concerning ‘How to Read…’
Philosophy or Short Stories. The good thing about learning ‘how to read’ is that it simultaneously gives pointers as to ‘how to write’.]

How to Read Philosophy
https://www.blogs.ppls.ed.ac.uk/2017/02/28/read-philosophy-step-step-guide-confused-students/

How to Read a Short Story – like a Writer
https://paulettealden.com/how-to-read-short-stories-like-a-writer/

This absorbing and intelligent article illustrates her method by using 2 short stories.
Unfortunately, no link to them - so, I had to go hunt:

1. Proper Library - Carolyn Ferrell
https://xpressenglish.com/our-stories/proper-library/

2. Sarah Cole: A Type of Love Story - Russell Banks
https://missourireview.com/article/sarah-cole-a-type-of-love-story/

Thanks for your support :up:

Thanks. At least, the Lounge and this thread is open for business.
I've given my full response in the Literary Activity thread. Where I should have posted the question in the first place. Best to use that one. Otherwise, it gets confusing...
'Weird people' :sweat: :smile:
Non so weird as those that do not know...or something :wink:

Thanks, @Jamal for response, here:
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/949172

I didn't see it because I hadn't signed in. Not everybody does. So, they will not know about the Literary Activity.

Is there a reason for not making it visible? I think it would receive more attention and perhaps increase participation if you or Admin @Jamal @fdrake could change this. Why the need to sign in?

I wondered if its 'hiding' had something to do with some writers not wanting their entries to be seen as 'published'.

Related to TPF rule:
9) Entries must not be previously available online.

I think this is a standard rule in Writing Forums and magazine articles? :chin:

So, if TPF writers post here, does that mean that they have 'published'. And so cannot take the story elsewhere for appraisal?

***
The same thing goes for the Symposium category and everything listed below. Stories and the special Literary Activities. They too are not seen unless you sign in. I think that is a shame. Not everyone sees the full potential or substance of TPF - its width and openness...

Oh, there it is! Thanks :up:
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/15585/literary-activity-winter-2024

Thanks, guys! :up: :flower:
I see this thread is heading fast towards the 10 page limit I set myself.
Probably best to give my brain a rest before the challenge of the December Writing Fest.
It will be interesting to see how this pans out. @Baden et al keeping us in suspense until the very last minute... :naughty:
I don't expect to submit anything but look forward to reading and giving some feedback :cool:

The tone, the flavour, the atmosphere, the focus - the very essence of the story was altered unrecognizably. — Vera Mont

Really? That's not what I read about it. If so, then yes, of course it matters.

A cat tunnel. Well, well, well. I think need the human version. Why should kittens have all the fun?

I don't know how much time teachers have nowadays to spend with individual students, even if they didn't have to fear accusations of inappropriate behaviour. Boys' clubs, interest groups, community projects and informal sports under the leadership of male role models would be more are beneficial. — Vera Mont

I didn't mean with individual students but as part of learning. The author talked of critical thinking.
I agree that there is much benefit to be gained by community projects. 'Youth clubs' and the like used to exist for young male and female adults. Also, support groups. But cut-backs...

I'm just glad I visited San Francisco in the 1980's, when it was colourful and charming, when we engaged in conversation or banter or at least commerce with many locals. — Vera Mont

Lucky you. Never been there but I imagined it as such.

I'm in one of several nearby communities where people still notice one another, hold elevators, smile at jokes in the checkout line and appreciate a compliment. — Vera Mont

Yes. Pretty much the same here. Today at the garden centre I smiled and thanked a man holding a door open for me. With the exaggerated bow and gesture of a gentleman. Eyes meeting in humour and recognition. Yup...

Your stories cheer me up. Thanks :flower:

Re: The Myth of Siayphus by A. Camus; also, section 2.5 (esp. re: Camus) of the SEP article "Hope" ... — 180 Proof

Thank you. I have read them both. Twice. Still not convinced by Camus, his assumptions and conclusions. Nor the examples of the 3 'absurd' men. I would have to read more and spend time to consider my initial response before a full, knowledgeable criticism. Not prepared to do this, right now.

To embrace the absurd implies embracing all that the unreasonable world has to offer. Without meaning in life, there is no scale of values. "What counts is not the best living but the most living."

Thus, Camus arrives at three consequences from fully acknowledging the absurd: revolt, freedom, and passion... — Wiki - The Myth of Sisyphus

Camus compares the absurdity of man's life with the situation of Sisyphus, a figure of Greek mythology who was condemned to repeat forever the same meaningless task of pushing a boulder up a mountain, only to see it roll down again just as it nears the top. The essay concludes, "The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man's heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy." — Wiki - The Myth of Sisyphus

I don't see any filling of a heart, male or otherwise. The myth is not about hope or courage. It was a punishment because he was stupid - how did he think he could control and chain Death? I don't imagine him happy. He does persevere but he had no choice. Courage means having a choice.

Courage (also called bravery, valour (British and Commonwealth English), or valor (American English)) is the choice and willingness to confront agony, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation. Valor is courage or bravery, especially in battle.

- Wiki.

This does not compare in any comprehensive way to human struggles and joys in the world. The stories wider, deeper and more nuanced. Hope and Courage and Love.

Same reason anyone wears "lipstick". — 180 Proof

Yes. :roll: I am aware that it is not only women that wear it. You know, as well as I do, that it is mainly related to femininity. There are as many different reasons as there are colours and shades. Red, in particular, has history and symbolism:

This classic cosmetic has long been a symbol of femininity, empowerment, and self-expression
...a symbol of resistance against societal norms and expectations. During World War II, red lipstick became a symbol of hope and defiance against the oppressive Nazi regime. Women in the resistance wore red lipstick as a form of protest and to signal their solidarity with the cause. — Medium - Red lipstick

I used it to paraphrase the old (American?) saying 'lipstick on a pig'. :kiss: — 180 Proof

Well, that goes some way to explain your use. But the saying can still be read as female superficiality to change appearance. To mask or enhance. Lipstick as a coverup. To somehow 'deny and evade' the nightmare, the 'absurd' ?

This can be interpreted as a feminisation of Hope. Somehow 'weak', not strong enough to face life or see a lack of meaning in the world. How absurd!
Camus and Sisyphus can keep on rolling. It won't get them anywhere...and it ain't courageous.
In my opinion :kiss:

Sorry, still not getting it.

'Hope' is just lipstick on a nightmare.

Why 'lipstick'? With its female connotation?

How does it - or hope - amount to a denial of whatever 'nightmare' and how does it evade 'absurdity'?

*connecting, connecting*
Ms Guardianista at your service. I won't say a word...

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/nov/16/zombie-apocalypse-dangerously-disconnected-world-rebecca-solnit

I realise that my earlier copy and paste from the Guardian was lazy.
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/947531
I'm also in danger of being seen as 'Ms Guardianista' :monkey: I know that it is better to read from a variety of sources and I have and still do. However, I only have time for one morning read and this usually provides balance with comments BTL.

I'm reading this part again and wondering...written by an anonymous High School student?

But clearly, a shift back toward traditional gender roles is resonating with them now as progression toward female empowerment threatens their already delicate self esteem.

So how do we address this, going forward? How do we ensure that young boys practice critical thinking instead of falling victim to Trump’s rhetoric with its focus on recommitting to gender stereotypes that we believed had finally been eradicated?

Parents, we urge you to be aware of this growing phenomenon and teach your children about the dangers of calculated political movements designed to further one politician’s agenda...

In fact this is an epidemic that will continue to spread rapidly until we start talking about it.

Perhaps I missed it but there seems to be a lack of interaction with the 'young boys' themselves. Either in a mixed group debate, an intervention by the teachers or informally face to face.
No interpersonal connection?

This is a one-sided view. I hope the guys are given an opportunity to speak their minds. And that there is not just a 'talking about it' but a careful listening. On all sides. Communicate.

They've discovered that collapsible tube with a window in the side. Even the big cats still play with it from time to time, but for the little guys, it's a whole playground. — Vera Mont

See bolded. What is that, pray tell?!
Your kittens have the best story...having fun. Playing around. Hope to read more soon :flower:

That nation was, in fact, not merely divisible, but divided from its very inception. Things got better, with a lot of hard work, perseverance and sacrifice. Now they're worse again. The descents are fast; destruction is much easier than construction; destruction can be carried out by an army of drunken orcs, while construction takes vision, co-operation, forbearance, patience and fortitude.
I just don't believe there is time for another long upward slog. — Vera Mont

Yes. The quick descent. I once thought of life and its changing patterns as circles. All things must pass and come around again. Now, I think of a downward spiral and I'm not sure if it will spring back...

It all started with the devil Eve, don't you know.
I think we could spend time talking about the religious separation of males and females in places of worship and education. And a whole lot of other factors - feeding into the current narrative.

I wonder if we will ever go beyond our biology as animals. The need for protecting ourselves, family and resources. Even in the midst of cooperation there is competition. So it goes. Love and War.

Where some value the female as Madonna, others vilify her, even if she is acknowledged. (weak)
Where some value the male as God, others vilify him, as Tyrant. (strong)
The truth is the human is more complex with strengths and weaknesses combined.
Most people just get on with life, because there is nothing else for it...

I keep thinking about @180 Proof's quote:

'Hope' is just lipstick on a nightmare.

https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/703706

It sounds clever, creative and cryptic. What does it mean? @180 Proof :chin:

I hated the cinematic version of Good Omens, perhaps even more than I normally would have, because I like David Tenant and found that over-the-top campy performance embarrassing. The book OTOH, was charming and quietly amusing. The central characters were determined mortal kids, not the supernaturals. — Vera Mont

No, Vera, just No!! I love Tennant and can't allow this :naughty:

I'm watching series 1 and up to episode 3 'Hard Times'.
The chemistry and dialogue between David Tennant and Michael Sheen - as devil and angel respectively - Wow. They are SO right in their roles - good and evil joining forces to prevent the end of the world. :fire:

As for any 'campness' - yeah, it is full on in parts. They can both vamp it up a little as they have fun.
But not so much that it detracts from the action. A combination of the best and worst human traits, with no absolute 'black and white' division. I suppose this could translate into a 'greyness' but no, we are treated to an extravaganza of vibrant colour.

The angel does stick to conventional white, from head to toe. Tennant goes wild with red hair, in varying styles. The black shades hiding his serpent eyes. But the inked snake still crawls up his neck, replacing Tennant's trademark sideburn. And then there is his snake-hipped slide-walk.

Tennant is instantly recognisable. There were moments when his languid, loucheness reminded me of Bill Nighy, another favourite. He is so channelling the spirit ! Then he struts off, rock-star style...hmmm...who is the most camp Rolling Stone?

There are quick nods to history. You need to be alert to catch some of them.
My ears pricked up at the mention of them both having business in Edinburgh.
And the crucifixion scene where the devil wonders why...

OK. Enough already...
I did listen to the book a while ago. I can't remember how different it is. But, hey, does it matter?
The visuals are so dastardly creative :halo: :cool:

Follow up:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/nov/15/the-boys-in-our-liberal-school-are-different-now-that-trump-has-won

...the beginning of a new wave of male conservatism that was infiltrating our school. Obsession with achieving a more muscular body through excessive exercise and intense dieting fueled by ridiculous social media campaigns fell far outside the realm of healthy self-care. And the desire to socialize only with other boys stood in stark contrast to the co-ed activities we were accustomed to since childhood.

It hadn’t taken long for this focus on machismo to creep into these boys’ mindsets and conversations. Seemingly harmless disrespectful comments with witty undertones toward girls became commonplace, and feelings of traditional male dominance started to sneak back into our friend groups.

While these are just observations within our own high school, we believe that this is happening across the country. Young, well-off white boys from liberal families are being tempted by conservatism simply to protect an archaic idea of masculinity that guarantees them inherent power. It is not as if they are against abortion, or care much about the economy or immigration, or even feel remotely attracted to the rest of conservative dogma. But clearly, a shift back toward traditional gender roles is resonating with them now as progression toward female empowerment threatens their already delicate self esteem.

So how do we address this, going forward? How do we ensure that young boys practice critical thinking instead of falling victim to Trump’s rhetoric with its focus on recommitting to gender stereotypes that we believed had finally been eradicated?

Parents, we urge you to be aware of this growing phenomenon and teach your children about the dangers of calculated political movements designed to further one politician’s agenda. Until we do so, it is likely this pattern will continue. Boys in our school as young as eight are beginning to exhibit these same misogynistic tendencies that we never remember noticing when we were their age. And the most dangerous aspect of this is how little it’s talked about in mainstream media and how easily it has been overlooked in progressive communities. In fact this is an epidemic that will continue to spread rapidly until we start talking about it.

Hopepunk as a philosophy?

By telling hopepunk stories, we necessarily have to be asking questions like, “How do we care about each other in a world which so aggressively doesn’t care about so many of the people in our communities? Who do we consider community, and is that definition too narrow? How do we fight back against the people who want to make us sit down and shut up?”

By asking ourselves these questions, hopepunk expands from simple “genre” to an entire life philosophy. It sticks in the back of your head and changes you, a little bit.

There is a need for hopepunk because our president is a fascist.

Because there are children dying in concentration camps within our borders. Because Jeff Bezos makes nearly nine million dollars per hour while his warehouse employees risk homelessness. Because we think it’s normal that people should go bankrupt if they get ill and need medical assistance, or that they should get an Uber to the hospital instead of an ambulance. Because climate change is real. Because children have safety drills to practice what to do in case of an armed shooter in their school. Because racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and ableism exist.And there is a need for hopepunk because it reminds us that these dragons can be slain. Because it reminds us that there’s power in a union, that communties banding together can make a difference. Because the moral arc of the universe bends towards justice. We’ve beaten them before, and we can beat them again, and the next time after that. The work is never finished, and the fight is never permanently won. But we keep fighting anyway, because it is the fight itself, not “winning”, that’s the point. — Den of Geek - A Hopepunk Guide - Interview with Alexandra Rowland

NB the interview took place in Nov 2019.