Sample ARP - multiple definitions

Please note, your assignment requires summary of four definitions- two definitions of 'race' and two definitions of one 'other' term. This sample is different, it only requires three definitions of 'race' and is shorter than required. However, this sample does usefully demonstrate clear structure, format requirements, as well as the writer's approach to dealing with multiple sources within a paragraph.

Suzuki

Akiko Suzuki
Professor Watanabe
ARW Section AX
20 October 2006

A Comparison of Three Theories Regarding the Meaning of the Word “Race”

Summary
(Overview sentence first!) Banton, Guillaumin, and Ackermann propose three different theories on the origin and meaning of the word “race.” According to Banton in Racial Theories, we use the term “race” mainly as “a concept of type” (34). The concept of type helps us to categorize our physical characteristics without the establishment of scientific classes. On the other hand, Guillaumin in Race, Sexism, Power and Ideology supports the theory that the word originally came from the French word meaning “family relationship” and then shifted to express “common physical traits” (179), which is the common interpretation today. Finally, in Heterogeneities Ackermann clearly denies the biological validity for “race,” insisting that humans are “an interbreeding species with no clear physical characteristic boundaries between groups” (76). Ackermann theorizes that our real meaning of “race” is not a concept of scientific physical characteristics, but primarily a “system of social and political differences” (85) in the minds of people.

Discussion (A one paragraph format like below is fine, but you can use multiple paragraphs too.)
(Main point must come first clearly!) Ackermann’s theory of the meaning of race seems to be more developed and meaningful for society than the theories of Guillaumin or Banton. (Indicate structure) This is for two reasons. (Use clear transition markers) First, Ackermann’s theory is more developed because...For example,...Second, Ackermann’s theory is more meaningful for society because...For example,...Thus, in conclusion, Ackermann’s theory that race is a system of perceived social and political differences offers a more complete interpretation of how “race” affects our society. As Guillaumin also observes, “Race is not real, but it does kill.”(25) It seems indispensable to consider Ackermann’s political and social interpretation of race in any discussion of race and racism.

Works Cited

Guillaumin, Colette. Racism, Sexism, Power, and Ideology. London: Routledge Press,1995.
Banton, Michael P. Racial Theories. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1987.
Ackermann, Robert J. Heterogeneities: Race, Gender, Class, Nation, and State. Amherst:University of Massachusetts Press, 1996.

(Note: MLA style calls for underlining of book titles, however, your blog does not support underlining so please use italics. See Hacker p. 341- for more correct formatting of in-text citations and Works Cited. Also the sources above are authentic, but the page numbers are for show only.)