Topic

The 9/11 Conspiracy Theory

Instructions

Rationale

Because the major assignment for this semester is based upon a large research-driven project, I am requiring a proposal that lays out the general research questions and thesis for the research paper. This is to accomplish two things: 1) to get you thinking about your final project early in the semester, and 2) to allow me to help guide you throughout the semester and to stop any issues with the project before they start. Important: you will not be locked in to this proposal for the rest of the term. You will be able to adjust and/or change your topic as long as I am notified in advance.

Invention

The key to this proposal is to think of questions related to our course readings and discussions (regarding the defense or refutation of a particular conspiracy theory). The actual topic and argument in your project is entirely up to you. Here are the specific questions I would like you to consider:

Which conspiracy theory are you interesting in writing about?
Which side of the argument will you take (for the theory or against)?
Why is this particular theory of interest to you?
What do you know about this theory at this point?

Composition

This proposal should be around one to two paragraphs, and should include the main topic you want to research, your initial argument regarding that topic, and your rationale for researching the topic (Why is it important? What is it that interests you about it?).

Answer Preview

The main argument in the proposed research is for the theory that the 9/11 was an inside job, meaning that while the impact of the airplanes was terror-related it could not have caused the systematic collapse of the building. Preliminary investigations suggested that the inferno from the commercial planes weakened the tower structures, which added to the weight of the structures, causing them to collapse. However, as time passed analysts questioned the credibility of the findings after a careful analysis of the footing. Therefore, from the perspective of the critical analysis of researchers and explosive experts, the proposed research argues that the 9/11 event was an inside job where involved people coordinated with the terrorists to bring the towers down.

Word Count: 650