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Definition of thesis

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In high school, college, or graduate school, students often have to write a thesis on a topic in their major field of study. In many fields, a final thesis is the biggest challenge involved in getting a master's degree, and the same is true for students studying for a Ph.D. (a Ph.D. thesis is often called a dissertation ). But a thesis may also be an idea; so in the course of the paper the student may put forth several theses (notice the plural form) and attempt to prove them.

Examples of thesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'thesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

in sense 3, Middle English, lowering of the voice, from Late Latin & Greek; Late Latin, from Greek, downbeat, more important part of a foot, literally, act of laying down; in other senses, Latin, from Greek, literally, act of laying down, from tithenai to put, lay down — more at do

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3a(1)

Dictionary Entries Near thesis

the sins of the fathers are visited upon the children

thesis novel

Cite this Entry

“Thesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thesis. Accessed 21 Aug. 2024.

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I. What is a Thesis?

The thesis (pronounced thee -seez), also known as a thesis statement, is the sentence that introduces the main argument or point of view of a composition (formal essay, nonfiction piece, or narrative). It is the main claim that the author is making about that topic and serves to summarize and introduce that writing that will be discussed throughout the entire piece. For this reason, the thesis is typically found within the first introduction paragraph.

II. Examples of Theses

Here are a few examples of theses which may be found in the introductions of a variety of essays :

In “The Mending Wall,” Robert Frost uses imagery, metaphor, and dialogue to argue against the use of fences between neighbors.

In this example, the thesis introduces the main subject (Frost’s poem “The Mending Wall”), aspects of the subject which will be examined (imagery, metaphor, and dialogue) and the writer’s argument (fences should not be used).

While Facebook connects some, overall, the social networking site is negative in that it isolates users, causes jealousy, and becomes an addiction.

This thesis introduces an argumentative essay which argues against the use of Facebook due to three of its negative effects.

During the college application process, I discovered my willingness to work hard to achieve my dreams and just what those dreams were.

In this more personal example, the thesis statement introduces a narrative essay which will focus on personal development in realizing one’s goals and how to achieve them.

III. The Importance of Using a Thesis

Theses are absolutely necessary components in essays because they introduce what an essay will be about. Without a thesis, the essay lacks clear organization and direction. Theses allow writers to organize their ideas by clearly stating them, and they allow readers to be aware from the beginning of a composition’s subject, argument, and course. Thesis statements must precisely express an argument within the introductory paragraph of the piece in order to guide the reader from the very beginning.

IV. Examples of Theses in Literature

For examples of theses in literature, consider these thesis statements from essays about topics in literature:

In William Shakespeare’s “ Sonnet 46,” both physicality and emotion together form powerful romantic love.

This thesis statement clearly states the work and its author as well as the main argument: physicality and emotion create romantic love.

In The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne symbolically shows Hester Prynne’s developing identity through the use of the letter A: she moves from adulteress to able community member to angel.

In this example, the work and author are introduced as well as the main argument and supporting points: Prynne’s identity is shown through the letter A in three ways: adulteress, able community member, and angel.

John Keats’ poem “To Autumn” utilizes rhythm, rhyme, and imagery to examine autumn’s simultaneous birth and decay.

This thesis statement introduces the poem and its author along with an argument about the nature of autumn. This argument will be supported by an examination of rhythm, rhyme, and imagery.

V. Examples of Theses in Pop Culture

Sometimes, pop culture attempts to make arguments similar to those of research papers and essays. Here are a few examples of theses in pop culture:

America’s food industry is making a killing and it’s making us sick, but you have the power to turn the tables.

The documentary Food Inc. examines this thesis with evidence throughout the film including video evidence, interviews with experts, and scientific research.

Orca whales should not be kept in captivity, as it is psychologically traumatizing and has caused them to kill their own trainers.

Blackfish uses footage, interviews, and history to argue for the thesis that orca whales should not be held in captivity.

VI. Related Terms

Just as a thesis is introduced in the beginning of a composition, the hypothesis is considered a starting point as well. Whereas a thesis introduces the main point of an essay, the hypothesis introduces a proposed explanation which is being investigated through scientific or mathematical research. Thesis statements present arguments based on evidence which is presented throughout the paper, whereas hypotheses are being tested by scientists and mathematicians who may disprove or prove them through experimentation. Here is an example of a hypothesis versus a thesis:

Hypothesis:

Students skip school more often as summer vacation approaches.

This hypothesis could be tested by examining attendance records and interviewing students. It may or may not be true.

Students skip school due to sickness, boredom with classes, and the urge to rebel.

This thesis presents an argument which will be examined and supported in the paper with detailed evidence and research.

Introduction

A paper’s introduction is its first paragraph which is used to introduce the paper’s main aim and points used to support that aim throughout the paper. The thesis statement is the most important part of the introduction which states all of this information in one concise statement. Typically, introduction paragraphs require a thesis statement which ties together the entire introduction and introduces the rest of the paper.

VII. Conclusion

Theses are necessary components of well-organized and convincing essays, nonfiction pieces, narratives , and documentaries. They allow writers to organize and support arguments to be developed throughout a composition, and they allow readers to understand from the beginning what the aim of the composition is.

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What is a Thesis? Definition, Examples of Theses in Literature

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is a Thesis? Definition, Examples of Theses in Literature

Thesis definition: A thesis is a statement in which the writer conveys his position regarding a topic.

What is a Thesis?

A thesis statement refers to part of an essay where the writer establishes his position regarding a topic. This is the position that the writer will further explore throughout his paper.

Example of Thesis

• Topic : religious freedom.
• Thesis : All citizens of the United States should be allowed to exercise the religion of their choice freely without interference from government.
• Explanation : In this thesis statement, the writer has taken the position that all citizens should be free to worship and practice their religion as they see fit. The government should not pressure citizens into any religion, and it should not persecute members of any faith community.

The Importance of a Thesis Statement

Thesis statements are important in order to establish the writer’s position regarding a topic or idea. They help to introduce the essay and set a focus for the reader.

Narrative thesis statements are found in narrative essays or in literature. They set the scene for the lesson that will be explored or taught through the piece.

Famous opening lines that exemplify a narrative thesis:

• The following narrative thesis is found in A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens:

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”

The Function of Thesis in Literature

Narrative thesis statements are important in literature in order to establish the purpose for the work or introduce the lesson that the novel will attempt to teach. This allows the reader to have a focus when beginning the novel in order to effectively engage them into the story.

Examples of Theses in Literature

In the memoir, I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai, a thesis statement can be found in the beginning pages of her story.

• “One year ago I left my home for school and never returned. I was shot by a Taliban bullet and was flown out of Pakistan unconscious. Some people say I will never return home, but I believe firmly in my heart that I will. To be torn from the country that you love is not something to wish on anyone.”

In this thesis statement, Yousafzai establishes the basis of her memoir, which is to tell the story of how she was forced to leave her home.

In Vladmir Nabokov’s Lolita , a thesis can be seen in the line, “Lolita, light of my life, the fire of my loins”.

Here the narrator establishes the identity of the young nymph that he is unhealthily obsessed with in the story. Lolita is a young child while he is a grown man; therefore, this statement creates the uneasy feeling about him that continues throughout the novel.

Summary: What Are Theses?

Define thesis in literature: In summation, a thesis statement establishes a purpose in the piece of writing. It may establish the lesson or story to be told, or in an essay it may establish the position the writer assumes when exploring a topic.

Either way, it is important for the thesis to be clear in order to effectively convey the writer’s message.

Final Example:

In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Cask of Amontillado,” the thesis statement can be found in the first line of the short story. Montresor immediately states his purpose, “the thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as best I could, but when he ventured upon insult I vowed revenge.”

In this statement, Montresor states that he will be seeking revenge after being treated wrongly by Fortunato. By beginning the story with the narrative thesis establishes the purpose for the remainder of the piece.

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Thesis – Structure, Example and Writing Guide

Table of contents.

Definition:

Thesis is a scholarly document that presents a student’s original research and findings on a particular topic or question. It is usually written as a requirement for a graduate degree program and is intended to demonstrate the student’s mastery of the subject matter and their ability to conduct independent research.

History of Thesis

The concept of a thesis can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was used as a way for students to demonstrate their knowledge of a particular subject. However, the modern form of the thesis as a scholarly document used to earn a degree is a relatively recent development.

The origin of the modern thesis can be traced back to medieval universities in Europe. During this time, students were required to present a “disputation” in which they would defend a particular thesis in front of their peers and faculty members. These disputations served as a way to demonstrate the student’s mastery of the subject matter and were often the final requirement for earning a degree.

In the 17th century, the concept of the thesis was formalized further with the creation of the modern research university. Students were now required to complete a research project and present their findings in a written document, which would serve as the basis for their degree.

The modern thesis as we know it today has evolved over time, with different disciplines and institutions adopting their own standards and formats. However, the basic elements of a thesis – original research, a clear research question, a thorough review of the literature, and a well-argued conclusion – remain the same.

Structure of Thesis

The structure of a thesis may vary slightly depending on the specific requirements of the institution, department, or field of study, but generally, it follows a specific format.

Here’s a breakdown of the structure of a thesis:

This is the first page of the thesis that includes the title of the thesis, the name of the author, the name of the institution, the department, the date, and any other relevant information required by the institution.

This is a brief summary of the thesis that provides an overview of the research question, methodology, findings, and conclusions.

This page provides a list of all the chapters and sections in the thesis and their page numbers.

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the research question, the context of the research, and the purpose of the study. The introduction should also outline the methodology and the scope of the research.

Literature Review

This chapter provides a critical analysis of the relevant literature on the research topic. It should demonstrate the gap in the existing knowledge and justify the need for the research.

Methodology

This chapter provides a detailed description of the research methods used to gather and analyze data. It should explain the research design, the sampling method, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures.

This chapter presents the findings of the research. It should include tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate the results.

This chapter interprets the results and relates them to the research question. It should explain the significance of the findings and their implications for the research topic.

This chapter summarizes the key findings and the main conclusions of the research. It should also provide recommendations for future research.

This section provides a list of all the sources cited in the thesis. The citation style may vary depending on the requirements of the institution or the field of study.

This section includes any additional material that supports the research, such as raw data, survey questionnaires, or other relevant documents.

How to write Thesis

Here are some steps to help you write a thesis:

• Choose a Topic: The first step in writing a thesis is to choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. You should also consider the scope of the topic and the availability of resources for research.
• Develop a Research Question: Once you have chosen a topic, you need to develop a research question that you will answer in your thesis. The research question should be specific, clear, and feasible.
• Conduct a Literature Review: Before you start your research, you need to conduct a literature review to identify the existing knowledge and gaps in the field. This will help you refine your research question and develop a research methodology.
• Develop a Research Methodology: Once you have refined your research question, you need to develop a research methodology that includes the research design, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures.
• Collect and Analyze Data: After developing your research methodology, you need to collect and analyze data. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, or analyzing existing data.
• Write the Thesis: Once you have analyzed the data, you need to write the thesis. The thesis should follow a specific structure that includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion, and references.
• Edit and Proofread: After completing the thesis, you need to edit and proofread it carefully. You should also have someone else review it to ensure that it is clear, concise, and free of errors.
• Submit the Thesis: Finally, you need to submit the thesis to your academic advisor or committee for review and evaluation.

Example of Thesis

Example of Thesis template for Students:

Title of Thesis

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Literature Review

Chapter 3: Research Methodology

Chapter 4: Results

Chapter 5: Discussion

Chapter 6: Conclusion

References:

Appendices:

Note: That’s just a basic template, but it should give you an idea of the structure and content that a typical thesis might include. Be sure to consult with your department or supervisor for any specific formatting requirements they may have. Good luck with your thesis!

Application of Thesis

Thesis is an important academic document that serves several purposes. Here are some of the applications of thesis:

• Academic Requirement: A thesis is a requirement for many academic programs, especially at the graduate level. It is an essential component of the evaluation process and demonstrates the student’s ability to conduct original research and contribute to the knowledge in their field.
• Career Advancement: A thesis can also help in career advancement. Employers often value candidates who have completed a thesis as it demonstrates their research skills, critical thinking abilities, and their dedication to their field of study.
• Publication : A thesis can serve as a basis for future publications in academic journals, books, or conference proceedings. It provides the researcher with an opportunity to present their research to a wider audience and contribute to the body of knowledge in their field.
• Personal Development: Writing a thesis is a challenging task that requires time, dedication, and perseverance. It provides the student with an opportunity to develop critical thinking, research, and writing skills that are essential for their personal and professional development.
• Impact on Society: The findings of a thesis can have an impact on society by addressing important issues, providing insights into complex problems, and contributing to the development of policies and practices.

Purpose of Thesis

The purpose of a thesis is to present original research findings in a clear and organized manner. It is a formal document that demonstrates a student’s ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the knowledge in their field of study. The primary purposes of a thesis are:

• To Contribute to Knowledge: The main purpose of a thesis is to contribute to the knowledge in a particular field of study. By conducting original research and presenting their findings, the student adds new insights and perspectives to the existing body of knowledge.
• To Demonstrate Research Skills: A thesis is an opportunity for the student to demonstrate their research skills. This includes the ability to formulate a research question, design a research methodology, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions based on their findings.
• To Develop Critical Thinking: Writing a thesis requires critical thinking and analysis. The student must evaluate existing literature and identify gaps in the field, as well as develop and defend their own ideas.
• To Provide Evidence of Competence : A thesis provides evidence of the student’s competence in their field of study. It demonstrates their ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems, and their ability to communicate their ideas effectively.
• To Facilitate Career Advancement : Completing a thesis can help the student advance their career by demonstrating their research skills and dedication to their field of study. It can also provide a basis for future publications, presentations, or research projects.

When to Write Thesis

The timing for writing a thesis depends on the specific requirements of the academic program or institution. In most cases, the opportunity to write a thesis is typically offered at the graduate level, but there may be exceptions.

Generally, students should plan to write their thesis during the final year of their graduate program. This allows sufficient time for conducting research, analyzing data, and writing the thesis. It is important to start planning the thesis early and to identify a research topic and research advisor as soon as possible.

In some cases, students may be able to write a thesis as part of an undergraduate program or as an independent research project outside of an academic program. In such cases, it is important to consult with faculty advisors or mentors to ensure that the research is appropriately designed and executed.

It is important to note that the process of writing a thesis can be time-consuming and requires a significant amount of effort and dedication. It is important to plan accordingly and to allocate sufficient time for conducting research, analyzing data, and writing the thesis.

Characteristics of Thesis

The characteristics of a thesis vary depending on the specific academic program or institution. However, some general characteristics of a thesis include:

• Originality : A thesis should present original research findings or insights. It should demonstrate the student’s ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the knowledge in their field of study.
• Clarity : A thesis should be clear and concise. It should present the research question, methodology, findings, and conclusions in a logical and organized manner. It should also be well-written, with proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Research-Based: A thesis should be based on rigorous research, which involves collecting and analyzing data from various sources. The research should be well-designed, with appropriate research methods and techniques.
• Evidence-Based : A thesis should be based on evidence, which means that all claims made in the thesis should be supported by data or literature. The evidence should be properly cited using appropriate citation styles.
• Critical Thinking: A thesis should demonstrate the student’s ability to critically analyze and evaluate information. It should present the student’s own ideas and arguments, and engage with existing literature in the field.
• Academic Style : A thesis should adhere to the conventions of academic writing. It should be well-structured, with clear headings and subheadings, and should use appropriate academic language.

Advantages of Thesis

There are several advantages to writing a thesis, including:

• Development of Research Skills: Writing a thesis requires extensive research and analytical skills. It helps to develop the student’s research skills, including the ability to formulate research questions, design and execute research methodologies, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions based on their findings.
• Contribution to Knowledge: Writing a thesis provides an opportunity for the student to contribute to the knowledge in their field of study. By conducting original research, they can add new insights and perspectives to the existing body of knowledge.
• Preparation for Future Research: Completing a thesis prepares the student for future research projects. It provides them with the necessary skills to design and execute research methodologies, analyze data, and draw conclusions based on their findings.
• Career Advancement: Writing a thesis can help to advance the student’s career. It demonstrates their research skills and dedication to their field of study, and provides a basis for future publications, presentations, or research projects.
• Personal Growth: Completing a thesis can be a challenging and rewarding experience. It requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. It can help the student to develop self-confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment.

Limitations of Thesis

There are also some limitations to writing a thesis, including:

• Time and Resources: Writing a thesis requires a significant amount of time and resources. It can be a time-consuming and expensive process, as it may involve conducting original research, analyzing data, and producing a lengthy document.
• Narrow Focus: A thesis is typically focused on a specific research question or topic, which may limit the student’s exposure to other areas within their field of study.
• Limited Audience: A thesis is usually only read by a small number of people, such as the student’s thesis advisor and committee members. This limits the potential impact of the research findings.
• Lack of Real-World Application : Some thesis topics may be highly theoretical or academic in nature, which may limit their practical application in the real world.
• Pressure and Stress : Writing a thesis can be a stressful and pressure-filled experience, as it may involve meeting strict deadlines, conducting original research, and producing a high-quality document.
• Potential for Isolation: Writing a thesis can be a solitary experience, as the student may spend a significant amount of time working independently on their research and writing.

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Thesis Definition

The thesis is one of the most important concepts in college expository writing. A thesis sentence focuses your ideas for the paper; it's your argument or insight or viewpoint crystallized into a single sentence that gives the reader your main idea. It's not only useful for the reading audience to understand the purpose of the essay; this purpose is also useful for you as a writer, as it indicates the type of support that will follow in the paper and may indicate a logical structure or order for that support. Thus, you need to have a good grasp of the concept of thesis in order to proceed.

The thesis identifies two basics:

• what your ideas are about, and
• what your ideas are (i.e. what you will be trying to prove).

There are two parts to a thesis sentence that reflect these basics.

• The topic in the thesis tells what you are writing about.
• The angle in the thesis tells what your ideas are about the topic (again, what you are trying to prove).

For example:

• All successful college students have certain basic characteristics. [The main topic is about college students, while the idea or angle about the topic is that successful students share certain characteristics. The thesis indicates the type of support needed--discussion of those characteristics that contribute to college success.]
• For most adult students returning to college, the problems that they face along the way are outweighed by their achievements. [The main topic is about adult college students, while the idea or angle about the topic is that problems are outweighed by achievements. The thesis indicates the type of support needed and the order of that support--an explanation of the problems first and then an explanation of achievements second.]
• Adult students returning to college make up a higher percentage of entering students than they did twenty years ago because of a number of statistical, economic, and social reasons. [The main topic is about adult students returning to college, while the idea or angle about the topic is that there are reasons for the higher percentage of adults returning to college. The thesis indicates the type of support needed and the order of that support--an explanation of the statistical reasons first, economic reasons second, and social reasons third.]

Do you understand the basic topic and angle concept? If so, then there are a few more things to consider about the thesis. (And if not, now's the time to start asking a learning coach for assistance, so Email [email protected] ). It's important to investigate additional thesis characteristics at this point to make sure that you'll be creating a working thesis sentence that is workable and appropriate for college essays.  In addition to knowing what a thesis is, you need to know what a thesis is not. A thesis sentence's angle should NOT be:

• Too broad. For example, the following thesis really doesn't pinpoint a specific insight about the topic:  Adult students returning to college have a hard time. In what ways do adult students have a hard time? You'd need to identify a more specific insight in this angle.
• Too narrow a statement of fact. For example, the following thesis really cannot be developed into a full essay because the angle doesn't contain the writer's own thoughts or insights about the subject:  Adult students returning to college read an average of 7.5 books per term. A reader may respond by saying, "So what?" A narrow statement of fact does not contain your own personal analysis, argument, or interpretation of the topic--that all-important angle which a thesis must have.
• An announcement. For example, the following really is not a thesis at all because it lacks an angle that gives the writer's own insight into the topic: My topic is the adult student returning to college. Again, "So what?" What's the reader's idea here?

Once you create a working thesis, you should assess it to make sure that it fulfills thesis characteristics.  Make sure it has a clear topic (indication of what the thesis is about) and angle (what your own ideas are about the topic, i.e. what you are trying to prove). Make sure that the angle is not too broad, too narrow, a statement of fact, or an announcement. Work with the angle to make it indicate the order of your support, if you choose to do that for yourself or for your reading audience. And realize that the thesis is a working thesis until you finalize the essay (it's okay to revise the thesis as you go along, just as long as you retain important thesis characteristics.)

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Definition of thesis noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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• formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis
• build/construct/create/develop a simple/theoretical/mathematical model
• develop/establish/provide/use a theoretical/conceptual framework/an algorithm
• advance/argue/develop the thesis that…
• explore an idea/a concept/a hypothesis
• make a prediction/an inference
• base a prediction/your calculations on something
• investigate/evaluate/accept/challenge/reject a theory/hypothesis/model
• design an experiment/a questionnaire/a study/a test
• do research/an experiment/an analysis
• make observations/calculations
• take/record measurements
• carry out/conduct/perform an experiment/a test/a longitudinal study/observations/clinical trials
• run an experiment/a simulation/clinical trials
• repeat an experiment/a test/an analysis
• replicate a study/the results/the findings
• observe/study/examine/investigate/assess a pattern/a process/a behavior
• fund/support the research/project/study
• seek/provide/get/secure funding for research
• collect/gather/extract data/information
• yield data/evidence/similar findings/the same results
• analyze/examine the data/soil samples/a specimen
• consider/compare/interpret the results/findings
• fit the data/model
• confirm/support/verify a prediction/a hypothesis/the results/the findings
• prove a conjecture/hypothesis/theorem
• draw/make/reach the same conclusions
• read/review the records/literature
• describe/report an experiment/a study
• present/publish/summarize the results/findings
• present/publish/read/review/cite a paper in a scientific journal

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the•sis

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Definition of thesis – Learner’s Dictionary

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thesis noun [C] ( WRITING )

Thesis noun [c] ( idea ).

(Definition of thesis from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

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Thesis: Definition and Examples in Composition

Glossary of Grammatical and Rhetorical Terms

• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

A thesis ( THEE-ses ) is the main (or controlling) idea of an essay , report , speech , or research paper , sometimes written as a single declarative sentence known as a thesis statement . A thesis may be implied rather than stated directly. Plural: theses . It's also known as a thesis statement, thesis sentence, controlling idea.

In the classical rhetorical exercises known as the  progymnasmata , the  thesis is an exercise that requires a student to argue a case for one side or the other.

Etymology From the Greek, "to put"

Examples and Observations (Definition #1)

• "My thesis is simple: in the next century mankind must harness the nuclear genie if our energy needs are to be met and our security preserved." (John B. Ritch, "Nuclear Green," Prospect Magazine , March 1999)
• "We watch baseball: it's what we have always imagined life should be like. We play softball. It's sloppy--the way life really is." (from the introduction to Watching Baseball, Playing Softball)
• "Through Mansfield's skillful handling of point of view, characterization, and plot development, Miss Brill comes across as a convincing character who evokes our sympathy." (thesis statement in Miss Brill's Fragile Fantasy )
• "Suppose there were no critics to tell us how to react to a picture, a play, or a new composition of music. Suppose we wandered innocent as the dawn into an art exhibition of unsigned paintings. By what standards, by what values would we decide whether they were good or bad, talented or untalented, success or failures? How can we ever know that what we think is right?" (Marya Mannes, "How Do You Know It's Good?")
• "I think people are disturbed by the discovery that no longer is a small town autonomous--it is a creature of the state and of the Federal Government. We have accepted money for our schools, our libraries, our hospitals, our winter roads. Now we face the inevitable consequence: the benefactor wants to call the turns." (E.B. White, "Letter from the East")
• "It is possible to stop most drug addiction in the United States within a very short time. Simply make all drugs available and sell them at cost." (Gore Vidal, "Drugs")
• The Two Parts of an Effective Thesis "An effective thesis is generally composed of two parts: a topic and the writer's attitude or opinion about or reaction to that topic." (William J. Kelly, Strategy and Structure . Allyn and Bacon, 1996)
• Drafting and Revising a Thesis "It's a good idea to formulate a thesis early in the writing process , perhaps by jotting it on scratch paper, by putting it at the head of a rough outline , or by attempting to write an introductory paragraph that includes the thesis. Your tentative thesis will probably be less graceful than the thesis you include in the final version of your essay. Here, for example, is one student's early effort: Although they both play percussion instruments, drummers and percussionists are very different. The thesis that appeared in the final draft of the student's paper was more polished: Two types of musicians play percussion instruments--drummers and percussionists--and they are as different as Quiet Riot and the New York Philharmonic. Don't worry too soon about the exact wording of your thesis, however, because your main point may change as you refine your ideas." (Diana Hacker, The Bedford Handbook , 6th ed. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2002)
• A Good Thesis - "A good thesis tells the audience exactly what you want them to know, understand, and remember when your speech is done. Write it as a simple, declarative sentence (or two) that restates the speech purpose and states the main points that support the purpose. Although you may formulate a thesis statement early in the speech development process, you may revise and reword it as you research your topic.' (Sherwyn P. Morreale, Brian H. Spitzberg, and J. Kevin Barge, Human Communication: Motivation, Knowledge, and Skills , 2nd ed. Thomson Higher Education, 2007) - "An effective thesis statement singles out some aspect of a subject for attention and clearly defines your approach to it." (David Blakesley and Jeffrey L. Hoogeveen, Writing: A Manual for the Digital Age . Wadsworth, 2011)

Examples and Observations (Definition #2)

" Thesis . This advanced exercise [one of the progymnasmata] asks the student to write an answer to a 'general question' ( quaestio infina )--that is, a question not involving individuals. . . . Quintilian . . . notes that a general question can be made into a persuasive subject if names are added (II.4.25). That is, a Thesis would pose a general question such as 'Should a man marry?' or 'Should one fortify a city?' (A Special Question on the other hand would be 'Should Marcus marry Livia?' or 'Should Athens spend money to build a defensive wall?')" (James J. Murphy, A Short History of Writing Instruction: From Ancient Greece to Modern America , 2nd ed. Lawrence Erlbaum, 2001)

• Proof in Rhetoric
• Definition and Examples of Progymnasmata in Rhetoric
• Definition and Examples of Body Paragraphs in Composition
• Unity in Composition
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• Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition
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• Outlines for Every Type of Writing Composition
• Composition Type: Problem-Solution Essays
• Definition and Examples of Formal Essays
• Understanding Organization in Composition and Speech
• Arrangement in Composition and Rhetoric
• Definition and Examples of Composition-Rhetoric
• How to Write an Abstract

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Topic Definition Stage

Topic definition is an important stage in the legal research process.

A clearly defined research topic will steer your research, dictate where to start with your research, and help you more quickly find relevant legal information.

If you do not spend time on this Stage, you will likely find yourself down the research rabbit hole looking at sources that, in the end, are irrelevant to your final research product. 

In this Stage:

• Identify the Purpose of Your Research
• Determine the Broad Area(s) of Law
• Focus in on a Research Topic
• Refine Your Topic Scope

1. Identify the Purpose of this Research

There are two main types of legal research:

• Academic legal   research is generally scholarly, such as research done for a term paper, thesis, or as a research assistant for a professor.
• Practical  legal research is focused more on professional research tasks such as writing a memorandum, preparing for trial argument, or drafting a pleading. 

Note: Since a JD is a professional degree, law school assignments are often practical in nature, even though you are completing them in an academic setting.

The Topic Definition Stage will vary depending on the type of research, because they have different goals and research products (e.g. an essay versus a memo). For example:

• A law student writing a paper for a course may have a lot of agency in choosing a topic within a broad area of law. 
• A lawyer may need to define their topic by analysing their client's fact scenario.
• An articling student or research assistant may have a topic identified for them by a supervisor, but they will likely need to ask follow up questions to refine the scope of that topic. 

For these reasons, it is hard to describe one process for the Topic Definition stage. But in both types of research, you will want to make sure you have identified all three of the following a) the broad area of law, b) a research topic, and c) your topic scope. 

►See Academic Research  (on this page) for resources with more specific academic guidance.

►See Practical Research  (on this page) for resources with more specific practical guidance.

2. Determine the Broad Area(s) of Law

Areas of law are not particular legal issues. Rather, they encompass broad subjects like health law, environmental law, and constitutional law.

While it may sound obvious, legal researchers sometimes start with a very specific idea of their research topic. Identifying the broader area(s) of law helps you:

• Establish parameters for your research (what information can I exclude from my searches?).
• Locate introductory sources like treatises, which typically are named for a broad area of law (e.g. The Law of Contracts ).
• Identify high level keywords you can use for searching, browsing, and filtering legal information.

These techniques all help you effectively wade through the high volume of legal information—especially case law—that is available using modern research tools.

3. Focus in on your Research Topic

A research topic is a specific legal issue, problem, or other aspect you want to investigate in your research.

If you are starting from a fact scenario, this is where you will start to identify the legally relevant facts, and then translate those facts into legal issues. Keep in mind:

• Often facts may be characterized in a number of different ways. Avoid stating the issues too narrowly at this point. Try to conceptualize them in alternate ways.
• To get started, create a comprehensive list of everything you think needs to be included. Then revise the list into a more logical order. 
• It may be impossible to identify all the issues in your initial attempt. You will refine your understanding of the legal issues as your research progresses. 

►For more information on factual analysis and issue determination, see Chapters 1-3 in Legal Problem Solving by Maureen Fitzgerald. 

If you are starting from a blank slate, consider the following questions:

• Are there any particular legal issues in this area of law that interest you? 
• Is there a conflict, gap, or new development in this area of law?
• Is there a recent case in this area that signals changes to the law or new issues?
• Is there a common or uncommon practice relating to this area of law?
• Do different jurisdictions handle a particular legal problem in different ways?

►Need inspiration? Check out the legal news and blogs in our  Current Awareness guide  for ideas of developments in the law.

4. Refine Your Topic Scope

Refining your research topic means narrowing it to a manageable scope. It will allow you to know what is and isn't applicable to your research.

How you narrow your scope will depend on your topic and also the parameters of the research task; a dissertation will have a much different scope than a 5-page memo. 

The following questions can help refine your research topic:

• Are you looking at one issue or multiple, interconnected issues?
• What jurisdiction(s) are you researching? Are you conducting comparative research?
• Do you want to do research the law as it was (historical research), as it is currently, or how it may evolve in the future? 

Note: Be prepared for your research topic to change as you start your research. Just because this is the first Stage does not mean that it must be completed fully before you move on.

This is especially true for academic research, where you may broaden or limit your topic based on the number of cases, statutes, and other resources that emerge in your initial research. 

For example, say that your topic is one with little or no case law in your proposed jurisdiction, such as the  liability of generative AI companies in copyright infringement in Canada . If your assignment parameters require you to conduct case law research, you may need to broaden your topic:

• You could broaden the jurisdiction (if relevant), such as by looking at American case law. 
• You might broaden your focus to other types of liability, if those are better represented in case law.
• You may consider using other types of copyright infringement cases to explore how the law on this topic may develop in the future.
• << Previous: Tips (Before You Start)
• Next: Exploratory Research >>

Stages in Legal Research

Academic Research

Practical Research

• Last Updated: Aug 20, 2024 11:10 AM
• Subjects: Law
• Tags: case law , common law , law , legal research , legal skills , legislation , regulations , statutes

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ECONLOG POST

Aug 20 2024

Matt Zwolinski on the Moral Parity Thesis

Kevin corcoran .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-avatar img { width: 80px important; height: 80px important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-avatar img { border-radius: 50% important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-meta a { background-color: #655997 important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-meta a { color: #ffffff important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-meta a:hover { color: #ffffff important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-recent-posts-title { border-bottom-style: dotted important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-author-boxes-recent-posts-item { text-align: left important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-li { border-style: none important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-li { color: #3c434a important; } .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.box-post-id-69046.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-instance-id-1 .pp-multiple-authors-boxes-li { border-radius: px important; } .pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline ul.pp-multiple-authors-boxes-ul { display: flex; } .pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline ul.pp-multiple-authors-boxes-ul li { margin-right: 10px }.pp-multiple-authors-boxes-wrapper.pp-multiple-authors-wrapper.pp-multiple-authors-layout-inline.multiple-authors-target-shortcode.box-post-id-69046.box-instance-id-1.ppma_boxes_69046 ul li > div:nth-child(1) {flex: 1 important;}.

By Kevin Corcoran, Aug 20 2024

A while back, I posted about a few different things I think are true , with a request for people to offer up what might change my mind. Unfortunately, the responses I got were generally what I specifically said I was not looking for. I was hoping to get some recommended reading, where people identified books, essays, etc. that made what they consider the best, most comprehensive case for a contrary view, rather than simply identifying a point they disagree with, followed by a three sentence explanation about why. 

However, there is a consolation prize – one of the quintessential bleeding-heart libertarian philosophers, Matt Zwolinski, recently and coincidentally posted some thoughts critiquing one of the ideas I listed – the moral parity thesis. This is the idea that, as Zwolinski phrases it, “if something is wrong for individuals to do, then it’s wrong for governments to do as well.” Or, as Dan Moller phrased it in his book Governing Least , “it should at the very least give us pause if we are advocating social institutions that enshrine a moral logic we reject in face-to-face encounters.” 

Zwolinski raises two concerns regarding the moral parity thesis. One, the moral parity thesis has radical implications, in that “it implies that almost everything that governments do – from drug criminalization to social welfare to taxation itself – is morally illegitimate.” It also has troubling implications regarding the case of children – or at least it seems to have little useful to suggest. 

The second objection is the idea that we can’t “extrapolate social morality from the morality of individual behavior.” That is, social morality might be an emergent phenomenon, “which is grounded but not manifested in the behavior that gives rise to it.” If this is the case, rules about how we should behave in individual, face-to-face encounters might very well be a poor guide to understanding rules that govern large scale social interactions. If social morality “is a fundamentally evolutionary phenomenon that emerges from our collective attempt to solve the problems inherent in social co-existence”, we can’t expect to answer those questions entirely by reference to individual encounters any more than you could derive properties about the ocean from the study of individual H2O molecules.  

These are interesting thoughts, but I don’t find them successful in undercutting the moral parity thesis. I’ll have one post upcoming dedicated to each objection, and explain why Zwolinski’s concerns haven’t persuaded me. But to give a preview – I disagree with Zwolinski’s claim that the moral parity thesis implies the illegitimacy of things like social welfare programs. One can accept moral parity, and still conclude that taxation and welfare programs are permissible. My next post will be providing an argument in favor of the welfare state that assumes the legitimacy of moral parity. 

After that, I’ll follow up with another post talking about the emergence objection, and why I don’t think it undercuts moral parity either.   

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The CFD-CAA method combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and computational aeroacoustics (CAA) techniques to analyze the interaction between fluid flow and the generation and propagation of sound. CFD is primarily concerned with simulating fluid flow patterns, while CAA focuses on predicting noise generation and its propagation in fluids. The CFD-CAA method provides a powerful tool for understanding and predicting the acoustic behavior of turbulent flows. By combining the strengths of CFD and CAA, this approach provides more precise and comprehensive analyses across various fields, thereby contributing to enhanced designs and noise control strategies.

Within industrial applications, a primary concern is noise source identification. This process enables engineers to locate and quantify the strength of noise sources within a system, facilitating the implementation of more effective strategies during the design process. A novel methodology, computational statistically optimized near-field acoustic holography (C-SONAH), is proposed to virtually identify aeroacoustic sources. Initially, sound pressure is obtained using the CFD-CAA method, followed by the application of the SONAH algorithm to locate acoustic sources and predict the sound field. C-SONAH offers computational advantages over direct CAA methods for simulating sound produced by systems with rotating elements, as CAA analyzes sources on the moving elements, making sound field calculation computationally expensive. The SONAH procedure converts these rotating sources into a series of equivalent stationary planar or cylindrical waves, reducing the number of sources and the time required to compute the sound field from each source. This methodology was demonstrated by characterizing the aerodynamic noise produced by a bladeless fan. The sound pressure level obtained by C-SONAH method was validated by the data predicted by the direct CFD-CAA method. Acoustic maps were reconstructed at different locations and frequencies, revealing that the C-SONAH method can predict noise sources generated by airflow and rotating components within the fan. Thus, it serves as an effective tool for understanding the aeroacoustic noise generation mechanism and guiding the design optimization of similar products.

The CFD-CAA method is also a powerful tool for design optimization. Computational simulations are typically less expensive and time-consuming than building and maintaining experimental setups, particularly for large or complex projects. Additionally, simulations reduce the need for multiple physical prototypes, which can shorten the development cycle. CFD-CAA simulations provide detailed flow and acoustic field data, including variables that may be difficult or impossible to measure experimentally, such as pressure distributions, velocity fields, and turbulent structures. In this dissertation, aeroacoustic characteristics and flow field information of vortex whistles were investigated using the CFD-CAA method. The simulation results clearly illustrate the swirling motion created in the vortex whistle cylinder and also demonstrate the linear frequency versus flow rate relationship characteristic of the whistle. The design of the vortex whistle was optimized based on the acoustic response and flow resistance by both simulations and experiments. The results suggest that the whistle with a thin inlet exhibits the best performance at high flow rates, while the whistle with a scale of 0.5 is the most sensitive to low flow rates, making it suitable for pediatric applications.

In CFD-CAA simulations, the time step typically cannot be too small due to limited computational resources. This constraint results in an aliasing error in spectral analysis. Consequently, an anti-aliasing operation prior to sampling is necessary to eliminate such errors from the acoustic source terms. In the present study, an anti-aliasing filter based on the compact finite difference formulation was designed within a time-domain, compact filter scheme. This filter was directly applied to the Navier-Stokes solver prior to sampling for CAA analysis. A cavity flow case was simulated to validate this mitigation strategy. The results indicate that the artificial spectral peak induced by aliasing error is removed without affecting other signature peaks. The anti-aliasing filter was also applied to more complex cases for predicting the acoustic field of a vortex whistle. The acoustic field around the vortex whistle, with both constant and variable inlet flow rates, was simulated, and the aliasing peak was successfully removed. Although the peak magnitudes decreased slightly due to the filter, the signature frequencies remained unchanged. Thus, the simulation with anti-aliasing operation can predict acoustic features without introducing aliasing errors, even if the time step is not sufficiently small, thereby significantly reducing simulation time.

In engineering applications, once noise sources are identified, the subsequent concern is noise reduction. An effective strategy for noise reduction involves acoustical absorbing materials to minimize noise emissions from components. Traditionally, experiments in engineering applications have focused on surface treatments to explore noise control techniques. However, the CFD-CAA method commonly assumes smooth and purely reflective wall surfaces. Consequently, there is growing interest in incorporating impedance boundary conditions into the CFD-CAA method. Since impedance boundary conditions are defined in the frequency domain, while CFD-CAA simulations operate in the time domain, direct implementation is not feasible. To address this issue, several methods have been proposed to define time-domain impedance boundary conditions in simulations. In the present study, a wall softness model was implemented in the CFD-CAA method and to examine a vortex whistle featuring an acoustically permeable surface. In simulations, an impedance boundary condition representing the properties of melamine foam was defined over the surface of a cylindrical cavity. The simulation results were validated against experimental data obtained from a vortex whistle with melamine foam. The findings revealed that the impedance of the melamine foam contributed to noise reduction at high frequencies. Additionally, at low airflow rates, the impedance boundary condition enhanced the signal-to-noise ratio for the low-frequency peak, which is advantageous in clinical applications.

Degree Type

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Mechanical Engineering

Campus location

• West Lafayette

Advisor/Supervisor/Committee Chair

Additional committee member 2, additional committee member 3, additional committee member 4, usage metrics.

• Fluid-structure interaction and aeroacoustics
• Computational methods in fluid flow, heat and mass transfer (incl. computational fluid dynamics)