While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.
This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.
Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence)
Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.
This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.
Arguable thesis with analytical claim
While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.
This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.
Arguable thesis with normative claim
Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.
This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.
Questions to ask about your thesis
- Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?
- Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?
- Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?
- Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?
- Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
- picture_as_pdf Thesis
What Is A Thesis? Writing A Thesis, Thesis Statement vs Dissertation
A thesis represents a pivotal milestone in academic scholarship, serving as a profound exploration of a chosen subject.
Many see a thesis as the embodiment of rigorous research, critical thinking, and scholarly discourse, offering students the opportunity to delve deep into a topic of interest and contribute original insights.
This article explores that is a thesis, explaining its purpose, structure, and process. We will also look at how it differs from a dissertation, and a thesis statement.
What Is A Thesis?
A thesis is a comprehensive document presenting the author’s research and findings, typically submitted as part of academic degree requirements.
A thesis also is a proof showcasing the writer’s original scholarship and understanding of the topic of choice.
Writing a thesis isn’t just about stating facts; it’s about:
- conducting your research,
- analysing source material, and then
- organising your ideas to persuade your reader.
You’re not only required to cite evidence to support your central argument but also to interpret it persuasively, adding credibility to your essay.
A thesis typically includes:
- Introduction: Introduces the research question and thesis statement
- Literature review: Contextualizes the research within existing work
- Methodology: This section detailing how the research was conducted,
- Findings: This section presents results or findings presenting the data collected
- Analysis or Discussion: Here you interpret the findings in the context of the research question
- Conclusion: You summarise the research and its implications.
There are also the citations throughout the document ensure the credibility and acknowledgment of referenced work.
Process In Writing A Thesis
Writing a thesis is a journey of creating a thorough document that encapsulates your research, analysis, and insights.
Identify A Topic
You begin by identifying a specific topic you’re passionate about. This could be anything that piques your curiosity and prompts a question you’d like to explore further.
You may also start thinking about your research questions, and iron the details out with your supervisor.
Develop A Strong Thesis Statement
The next step is developing a strong thesis statement. The thesis statement serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining what you, the author, will discuss or argue throughout the text.
It presents your position on a specific topic and helps to organize and focus the content of your paper. A strong thesis statement is:
- arguable, and
- reflects critical thinking about your subject.
Crafting Your Thesis Outline & Introduction
Crafting an outline is akin to drawing a roadmap for your thesis. It organizes your ideas and ensures your argument flows logically from the introduction, through the body, to the conclusion.
In the introduction, you lay the groundwork by presenting your thesis statement and giving your audience a taste of what’s to come.
Writing The Thesis Body
The body of your thesis is where the meat of your argument lies. Here, you dissect your topic, supported by evidence from your research.
Each paragraph should echo your central argument, offering a persuasive analysis of your findings.
Don’t forget to cite your sources. Using the appropriate citation style adds credibility to your work and acknowledges the existing research that helped shape your thesis.
Revising Thesis Draft
Revising your draft is perhaps the most crucial step. This is where you refine your argument, clarify your thoughts, and ensure your thesis is coherent. You might find yourself:
- revisiting the writing stage,
- seeking advice from advisors, or
- engaging with tutorials to strengthen your argument.
Thesis Defense & Submission
Here, you engage in defending your thesis with your readers, usually professors or experts in your field. You explain your research, as well as answer questions related to study. You may either pass, or pass with your thesis requiring corrections.
A completed these could then be submitted to the university, to fulfill the requirements for graduation.
Which Is Harder, Thesis Or Dissertation?
Both dissertation and thesis are significant academic undertakings, each with its unique challenges.
In crafting a thesis, you’re likely to develop a strong thesis statement, laying out your central argument right from the introduction.
This statement is your beacon, guiding your analytical journey through existing research, helping you to organize your thoughts and persuade your reader with a compelling argument.
Dissertations demand you to not just analyze but also contribute new knowledge. You’re not just revising what’s already known; you’re conducting your own:
- identifying gaps, and
- proposing novel insights.
This is where the dissertation stakes its claim as the more challenging of the two. You’re not only synthesizing a vast array of information but also adding your unique voice to the academic chorus.
Your journey, be it thesis or dissertation, will involve a rigorous evaluation of your topic, supported by citations that lend credibility to your work.
Whether you’re presenting an argumentative essay or an expansive research paper, the key lies in your ability to persuade and convince your reader of your central argument.
Thesis vs Thesis Statement
Thesis and thesis statement serve very different roles in your essay or dissertation. A thesis is a substantial piece of academic writing, usually a requirement for completing a master’s or bachelor’s degree.
It involves comprehensive research on a specific topic, and you’re expected to contribute new knowledge or insights.
On the other hand, a thesis statement is the essence of your argument condensed into one clear and concise sentence. It’s the heart of your essay, usually found in the introduction, guiding the direction of your paper.
Think of it as a compass for your readers, offering them a glimpse of what’s to come and the stance you’re taking.
Writing a strong thesis statement requires critical thinking and clarity. You need to identify your main argument and express it persuasively.
Remember, a good thesis statement is specific and debatable. It answers the central question of your research and sets the stage for your argument.
Whether you’re at the writing center seeking advice, or revising your draft, ensuring your thesis statement is strong will pave the way for a compelling academic essay or dissertation.
How To Write A Thesis Statement?
Crafting a strong thesis statement is like setting the foundation for a skyscraper; it’s essential for the stability and clarity of your entire essay.
You begin by identifying a specific topic that intrigues you. This could be anything from the impact of social media on mental health to the effects of climate change on coral reefs. The key is to choose a topic that allows for deep analysis and argumentation.
Next, you develop an arguable claim about this topic. A strong thesis statement goes beyond stating the obvious; it presents a point that could spark debate, inviting others to challenge your perspective.
Instead of writing, “Climate change is bad for the environment,” you could argue, “Immediate global policy changes are crucial to mitigating the irreversible impacts of climate change on global biodiversity.”
Your thesis statement should be concise, typically one sentence, and it usually appears in the first paragraph of your essay, setting the stage for your argument.
As you proceed, you might find yourself revisiting and revising your thesis statement. This is a normal part of the process, reflecting deeper understanding and refinement of your argument.
Don’t hesitate to seek feedback, to ensure your thesis statement is:
- compelling, and
Conclusion: What Is A Good Thesis?
A thesis is a comprehensive and well-researched document that presents the author’s findings and viewpoints on a specific subject. It serves as a critical step in academic pursuits, embodying the culmination of extensive study and original thought.
Crafting a thesis demands rigorous analysis, coherent argumentation, and the ability to contribute new insights to the existing body of knowledge. This makes being able to write one a cornerstone of scholarly achievement and intellectual growth.
Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.
Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.
We are here to help you navigate Academia as painlessly as possible. We are supported by our readers and by visiting you are helping us earn a small amount through ads and affiliate revenue - Thank you!
2024 © Academia Insider
IMAGES
VIDEO