hw piece: 750-1000 words 

The homework question:

Write about a long-standing belief you still hold. You will begin with a paragraph explaining your belief, and you will provide three criticisms for your own belief. The goal of this hw is not to change your own mind. It is to show you can evaluate your own ideas critically, can present your opponent’s ideas in a compelling way, and you can avoid oversimplifying positions for your own benefit. You should not respond to these criticisms! This writing piece is solely about the challenges of self-criticism; it is specifically designed to avoid the catharsis associated with defending your own position and feeling justified in your beliefs. Put differently: it’s part of the assignment that you end up frustrated.