Carter Anderson

In terms of improved critical analysis skills, performing research and an analysis on the view of ethnicity and race in France was absolutely invaluable.

I've surely gained a much broader understanding of analysis in terms of recognizing links between arguments, inconsistencies in logic, and moreover a systemic method to approaching problems so often over simplified.  

 

It was necessary for me to read extensively into the primary literature, historical documents and laws, and subsequently analyze biases throughout the manuscripts. Concerning such a complex social issue, it was daunting at first to peel away the many layers, whether they be historical, social, or hypothetical.

 

I learned through this to extrapolate the basis for arguments made in support and against the collection of racial statistics. By reading both French and American opinions on the two sides, I discovered several mindsets that exist concerning the subject and why these methods of thought have developed. From the horrors of Vichy France to educational disparities, the way in which an author presents the issue of race in France tells a story in itself of his/her own opinion. 

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