Why is a University?

Begin by reading:

• “Ignorance Vs. Reason in the War on Education” by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
• “Making the Grade” by Kurt Wiesenfeld
• Jeff Mann on modern students

The writing assignment:

This is a two-part assignment:

1. These three authors seem to share a philosophy about the real purpose of education. What is it? What is college really about according to them?
2. Do you buy that idea? Why or why not?

Mechanical details:

• The final product will be typed and double-spaced according to MLA format.
• The essay will be at least 1300 words long. (That's about 4 pages in standard format.)
• If the paper does not meet the minimum length requirement, it will be penalized. If you can't think up enough material for four pages, ask for help! Go to the Writing Center! Ask the instructor for advice!
• The final copy of the paper will be submitted through the Blackboard drop box. To submit your essay, open the Course Essentials folder at the top of our Blackboard page and find this essay’s drop box in the Written Assignment Drop Boxes folder.

Due dates:

1. Analyzing your draft: Bring your rough draft of Essay #5 to class Monday, December 7, 2026
2. Peer Editing: Bring two paper copies of your rough draft of Essay #5 to class Wednesday, December 9, 2026
3. Final Copy Due: Friday, December 11, 2026

This essay is worth 100 points.