OPTION 1: Choose a contemporary social, economic, political, or cultural problem and analyze it based on principles Gladwell identifies in The Tipping Point. In a 7-10 page critical essay, argue for the value of seeking the tipping point you identify to this problem and analyze how taking some specific measures based on this knowledge will begin to offer a solution to the problem.
OPTION 2: Choose one particular artifact of contemporary culture, be it a film, a book, an album, a sport, a political perspective, a fashion, a social relationship, etc. Then, in a 7-10 page critical essay, argue for how mythos operates to define and advance the significance of this artifact, perhaps even as a cultural value, however you will define culture and value.
To inform your argument, you should integrate into your essay at least three sources found in academic journals, newspapers, and other edited media. Your topic and thesis will dictate how many and what kinds of sources you will use, but at least one must come from a peer-reviewed, scholarly journal.
Research is more than just searching for an answer and reporting that answer. It's an iterative process of asking questions, understanding how others have approached similar questions, and eventually drawing your own conclusions on what you believe the answer to be.
If this feels overwhelming, don't be afraid to ask for help from a librarian or your professor!
