TOK Essay Title 1: Is subjectivity overly celebrated in the arts but unfairly condemned in history? Discuss with reference to the arts and history.
First, let’s break this down. What do we mean by ‘subjectivity’? We’re talking about personal opinions and feelings influencing judgment. Remember, in the arts, this could be a good thing, but in history, people often consider it a flaw. I want you to think deeply about why this dichotomy exists.
Arts
Questions to Ponder:
How does your personal reaction to a piece of art add or subtract from its value?
When you walk through an art gallery, are you seeking to understand the ‘true’ meaning of the art, or are you more interested in how it makes you feel?
My Strong Suggestions:
Take a Stand for Subjectivity: Come on, we all know that the power of art often lies in its ability to evoke personal reactions. Think about the last song that gave you chills—wasn’t your subjective experience what made it memorable.
Challenge the Celebration of Subjectivity: But wait a minute, isn’t there something to be said for technical skill in art? Should a poorly executed artwork be praised simply because someone finds personal meaning in it? I suggest you question this.
Real-Life Examples:
Look at Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile. Some people feel an emotional connection to it, while art critics might delve into the technique behind the painting.
Take abstract art—like a Jackson Pollock painting. You might see chaos; I might see emotion. The subjectivity is what makes it a talking point.
Introduction
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When you read a history book, do you believe you’re getting a 100% accurate representation of events?
My Strong Suggestions:
Stand Up for Subjectivity: History isn’t just about dates and events. It’s about human experience. So, how can it not be subjective? Think about histories written from the viewpoint of marginalized communities—they offer valuable insights that mainstream narratives might ignore.
Argue Against Subjectivity: But here’s the kicker—subjectivity can distort facts. We’ve all heard of ‘fake news’ and historical revisionism, right? Take a stand against the perils of letting subjectivity run wild in historical accounts.
Real-Life Examples:
Consider Howard Zinn’s ‘A People’s History of the United States.’ It’s a different lens on history but has been critiqued for being overly subjective.
Think about how different countries teach the events of World War II. American textbooks might downplay certain events, while Russian textbooks might highlight others.
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Essay Titles Overview
Embark on a captivating exploration of the IB’s Theory of Knowledge (TOK) with our in-depth guide to the six prescribed essay titles. These thought-provoking topics serve as gateways to a deeper understanding of the world. Discover the art of questioning, reasoning, and reflecting—a pathway to mastering the TOK essay and distinguishing yourself in the competitive academic landscape.
