“A great truth is a truth whose opposite is also a truth.” -Thomas Mann, born this date in 1875. Think of an example that proves this rule and explain it.
“Everybody is wrong about everything, just about all the time.” -Chuck Klosterman, born this date in 1972. Argue that Mr. Klosterman proves his point by being wrong.
On this date in 1989, in what became known as the June 4th Incident, hundreds of Chinese students were killed and thousands wounded as military troops massacred demonstrators from Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Describe the importance of a principle about which you feel strongly enough to confront military force.
“I worked night and day for twelve years to prevent the war, but I could not. The North was mad and blind, would not let us govern ourselves, and so the war came.” -Confederate States of America President Jefferson Davis, who was born on this date in 1808. Explain your beliefs about the concept of a justifiable war.
On this date in 1924, Congress granted full U.S. citizenship to American Indians. Describe a motivation politicians might have used to oppose this change.
On this date in 1980, a new, all-news cable TV channel called the Cable News Network began broadcasting. Describe how you get most of your news today, and whether you think that process is a good one or could be improved.
On this date in 1977, the BBC banned the playing of the Sex Pistols song God Save the Queen. Explain your opinion about whether banning a creative work is ever justifiable.
“There is no sin but ignorance.” -Christopher Marlowe, who died in a bar fight at age 29 on this date in 1593. Explain what you think he meant when he wrote that line.