(Suggested time—40 minutes. This question counts for one-third of the total essay section score.)
For centuries, prominent thinkers have pondered the relationship between ownership and the development of self
(identity), ultimately asking the question, “What does it mean to own something?”
Plato argues that owning objects is detrimental to a person’s character. Aristotle claims that ownership of tangible
goods helps to develop moral character. Twentieth-century philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre proposes that ownership
extends beyond objects to include intangible things as well. In Sartre’s view, becoming proficient in some skill and
knowing something thoroughly means that we “own” it.
Think about the differing views of ownership. Then write an essay in which you explain your position on the
relationship between ownership and sense of self. Use appropriate evidence from your reading, experience, or
observations to support your argument.
2. Write a thesis statement (2 examples are below)
Ex 1: The verb “to own doesn't just mean to have something, it means that we know something, or that we have made it a part of ourselves.
Ex 2: Ownership can be found within yourself or through experiences that help you discover your sense of self. 3. Briefly explain 3 bullet points you would use to support your answer
- Ex: owning a book - physically, tangibly, own book, but not your own until you own ideas, experiences shapes your self giving you a sense of the world
- Ex: Russia owns Crimea - geographically, legally, has acceptance from "97%" of its citizens / U.S. contends they don't own because it broke constitution of Crimea & international law - the debate has contributed to citizens having a fractured identity , Russia argues it has returned rightful citizenship to the people of Crimea returning their stolen identity -
- Ex: a baby owns nothing and to develop one's sense of self they begin to own / claim their parents through crying, demonstrating basic needs - they establish a sense of belonging to their parents as a means to develop their sense of self - our first sense ownership creates survival and knowledge
