Definition Essay
October 15th, 2016
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An argument of definition seeks to provide an alternative way of understanding a familiar concept. These alternatives can be socially driven, politically driven, or culturally driven. You can choose a concept, a term, a situation, a perspective–the possibilities are nearly endless. For example, one might “define” a Big Mac in terms of American capitalism: A Big Mac is an icon of American commercialism. If you think in terms of health, you might “define” it as a “heart attack on a bun.” If you think simply in terms of a quick lunch, how might you “define” it? That’s DEFINE, not DESCRIBE.
Another way to think of the idea of “definition” is to think “understand.” How does one “understand” an idea? What does it mean to you? For example, what is “home” to you? Is it simply a structure where you go at the end of the day? Is it something more significant? Is it a positive force in your life or a negative one? Does it evoke joy or sorrow? Is it a fortress? A prison? An escape?