Government 2305

Course Reflection Instructions

Think back on the topics we have covered this term. You might focus on some of the course content, the “controversial” ideas contained in the Discussion Boards or perhaps something we discussed in class. I’d like for you to reflect on something in those assignments that has led you to change your mind on a topic or at least change your perspective on something in a significant way. 

I find many times when I am challenged to think deeply about something, especially when I am forced to consider the views of others, that my views are impacted in some way. Sometimes I decide I was wrong. Sometimes I realize I was thinking too narrowly, or even being thoughtlessly prejudiced, in my views. Sometimes I decide I was basically right, but I am better able to understand and empathize with the views of others. And I'm always reminded that considering other perspectives is healthy. 

So, for this assignment, write a paper describing a time this term when something like that has happened to you. 

I really hope you can honestly say it has happened. Otherwise I’ll feel like my assignments were failures. If you honestly don’t think anything in what you’ve read and heard this term has had a significant impact on your personal views, just write about something someone else in the class said that you found interesting or insightful. (If that’s true I’d like to respectfully suggest that you consider whether or not you are honestly willing to be open to other perspectives. Being stuck in your views is a recipe for retaining fallacious beliefs, and is just boring!) 

Details: 250 words minimum; MLA format (Times New Roman 12 point font, double-space, appropriate heading) 

No sources or citations required, but you should describe what was said or what you read that had an impact on you. You are not required to identify the source, if it was another student and you don’t remember who it was, but if it was a media source you of course should cite it as with anything you use for any class. 

FYI: The submission link won't be visible till May 2 and the final due date is 11:59 p.m. May 7. You can't really reflect till the end of the semester, it seems to me.