Arguably, the concept of “difference” was the most significant philosophical advancement of the 20th century, as opposed to sameness or Identity. From racial difference to sexual difference, the idea that things are not the same and that in fact what we claim to “know” is always animated by an Other, that is, something we do not (and cannot) know, has influenced the way we value some things over others. One way we have discussed the concept of “difference” in our class has been through the recurring binary formula: A/-A. [Please describe how this binaric formula works. What does it tell us about the concept of “difference?” How does “difference” relate to knowledge production? And what does the concept of difference tell us about the social construction of gender and sexuality in our contemporary moment?]
The paper should open with a small introduction that includes your thesis statement (argument) for the paper. Then please close read whatever cultural object you choose in the first body paragraph (the paragraph following your small introduction), followed by two body paragraphs with minor points that reiterate and support your thesis. You should use 2-3 sources/readings from class. Outside sources are welcomed but do not count as one of the required 2-3. Papers should be 5-6pages (1250-1500 words MAX not including citations). MLA style citation, 1-inch margins, double-spaced, Times New Roman 12-point font.
