Read the linked article below first, and then read questions below and think about them for AT LEAST 30 minutes before writing a response. Then spend at least 30 minutes brainstorming - write down all the ideas that occur to you as quickly as you can. Then, go back through your answers and evaluate them. Whatever you think has potential should be developed carefully into your final answer.A good answer will demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the question. You will include reasons for each of your assertions, and then dig down into each of your reasons and say why you believe those to be true.
You should include at least three reasons for your statement, and you should have at least one paragraph of further argument, explanation, examples, and illustrations for each of your reasons.
Type your answer in a word processing program before you post. A good answer will be close to a page long at least, double spaced. Remember to include your first name and last initial in your comment.
Click on "comments" below and copy and paste your answer into the comment box. Click "comment as" and choose "anonymous" from the dropdown menu. Click "publish." A captcha will appear for you to answer.
Answers to the question are due by Friday at midnight.
Then, read through the answers and respond to one colleague. Think carefully about what the colleague has argued and think about what you can add to the discussion. Think of a substantive question you can ask, a point you can add, or a way you can develop the other person's reasoning. Your goal is to move the discussion forward in a helpful way. Please DO NOT merely agree with the other person and restate her answer.
Responses to a colleague are due by Sunday at midnight.
Article
Read this short article for a bit of historical background about one incident in the fight for civil rights in the U.S.
Questions
It's extremely easy, in retrospect, to condemn people in the 1950s and 60s for failing to stand up for civil rights. But in fact, doing so required great person risk and courage. Even people who didn't suffer physically often lost jobs, friends, social networks, and family relationships because they publicly supported civil rights.
What do you think is one issue going on right now that requires your courage? What about it makes it something that requires you to be courageous (what's risky or difficult about it for you)? What do you think is the courageous thing to do about that issue, and why?
