Normal transmission will be resumed soon. But today - a brief interlude: words not use in a theology essay (or not to use in ANY essay for that matter). And no, I am not going to give you a list of swear words. Don't use them either. But I didn't need to say that.
An essay is an attempt to find some clarity of thought on a subject. The following list of words are obstacles in the way of clarity of thought. When you find yourself using them, catch yourself and ask 'what am I really trying to say here?' - and then say that instead, without the bad word.
Here's the list. It's short.
1. important (in what way? to whom?)
2. helpful (who is being 'helped'? helpful to do what exactly? 'helpful' is a word that preachers should stop using, too)
3. significant (to whom? so what?)
4. useful (how? who cares? useful for what purpose?)
5. interesting (how so? I am not interested at the moment just because you say this is interesting...)
6 comments:
I agree with the sentiment, and perhaps I even completely agree wrt a theological essay.
But I like 'helpful'.
Indeed I think there's a wonderful place for all of these vaguely positive words. Sometimes you just want to express vague positivity or vague emphasis.
Let me also add one to the list, if I may:
'profound'.
Phrases to use in any and every theology essay:
'The reality is more complex'
'Both perspectives need to be held in tension'
'Such paradoxes are reflected in Scripture'
Thanks for the interesting and helpful post Michael. You raised some significant points. What you've said here is useful and important for students to grasp.
When I used to write legal advice for the government, I loved the word "clearly", a great cover all for when things are really not very clear at all.
"investigation into what Scripture has to say on your topic in your brianstorming phase. "
Rosner or Python?
Ouch. I see you've already cracked that one.
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