Term-Paper Topics

Here is a list of some possible term-paper topics:

1. Further discussion of any topic covered in class, e.g.:
   1. A critical examination of (someone else's) published answer to one of the questions listed on the syllabus.
   2. Your answer to one of the questions listed on the syllabus, including a defense of your answer.

2. A critical examination of any of the required or recommended (or any other approved and relevant) readings.

3. A critical study of any monograph (i.e., single-topic book) or anthology (including special issues of journals) on the philosophy of computer science.

4. A critical, but general, survey article on the philosophy of computer science that would be appropriate for an encyclopedia of philosophy or an encyclopedia of computer science.

5. A presentation and well-argued defense of your "philosophy of computer science", i.e., your answers to all (or most) of our questions, together with supporting reasons.

6. Other ideas of your own, approved by me in advance, including, but not limited to, such topics that we have mentioned but have not investigated as:
   • Is CS an empirical or a mathematical science?
   • Is CS an artificial or a natural science?
   • How does (the philosophy of CS) fit in with Alfred North Whitehead's "process philosophy"?

For general assistance with writing (including my required method of paper preparation and format, as well as advice on grammar), see my website "How to Write".

For specific assistance on writing a philosophy paper, see any of the guides on the Google list on "writing philosophy papers" accessible from the "What Is Philosophy?" Webpage.

The paper should be a maximum of 10 double-spaced, single-sided pages (i.e., about 2500 words) (not counting the bibliography).

Deadlines:

1. Monday, Feb. 15: Proposal and reading list due.
   • Your proposal and reading list must be approved by me before you begin your research and writing.
   • Because the term paper is optional, you do not need to commit yourself to it even if you turn in a proposal.

2. Monday, May 3: Final paper will be due on the day of the final exam.