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writing seminar, the 10 (+1) key insights on how to write with value for readers

Understanding the Function of Academic Writing: Academic writing primarily aims to help readers understand something they are interested in, more profoundly​. It’s essential to recognize that this understanding process in readers may differ significantly from the writer’s understanding process.

  1. Identifying Specific Readers: The value of academic writing is assessed by specific readers, not a generic audience. Understanding the particulars of the target audience is crucial for effective writing​.
  2. Emphasizing Understanding Over Persuasion: The core function of academic writing is to enhance understanding, differing from other forms of writing like politics or business, which often aim to persuade​.
  3. Writing About What Readers Want to Know: Academic writers must align their writing with what their readers want to understand. The success of academic texts largely depends on this alignment​.
  4. Criteria for Better Understanding: The concept of understanding ‘better’ varies across disciplines, and it’s the readers who decide what counts as a better understanding, not the writers​.
  5. Constructing the Problem: To effectively make readers understand better, academic texts need to illustrate the inadequacy in the readers’ current understanding. This involves constructing a problem that the text will solve​.
  6. Motivating Readers with Value: A text’s value lies in addressing a problem that the readers care about. This involves identifying an instability, its consequences, and connecting these with the interests of the reader community​.
  7. Instability and Its Perception: It’s crucial to establish why an instability matters to the readers and persuade them that resolving this instability has benefits​​. Sometimes, it may be necessary to construct an instability by destabilizing something the readers believe to be stable​.
  8. Gap vs. Error Problems: Writers often try to construct a problem by identifying a gap in knowledge or an error in current understanding. Choosing between these approaches depends on which type of problem the writer can more effectively argue for and which resonates more with the readers​.
  9. The Writing vs. Reading Process: The process of writing and the process of reading can be quite different. Writers should be careful not to assume their understanding translates directly to the readers. Feedback from others can be valuable in identifying gaps in problem construction​.
  10. Problems in the World vs. Problems in the Readers: Writers need to distinguish between describing instabilities in the world and those in the readers’ understanding. The aim should be to address the readers’ problem of understanding, not to resolve the world’s instabilities.

writing seminar, list of confirmed topics for the final paper

I want to share this diverse compilation of research topics suggested by students because I feel it exemplifies the interdisciplinary ethos of our Interdisciplinary Studies of the Middle East master’s program.

Rather than siloed concentrations, the program emphasizes cross-pollination of subjects, theories and methods to promote more nuanced understandings. The range displayed here – spanning politics, culture, language, social practices, urban studies and more – thus aligns with our commitment to intersectional scholarship.

Additionally, I hope this list inspires current and prospective students with possibilities for investigation. The Middle East is often narrowly construed along tired binaries and assumptions in mainstream discourse. But as these topics highlight, so many illuminating facets of societies in this region and of its people beyond the region remain underexplored through fresh, unconventional approaches.

As our existing cohort develops their work, the students themselves feature their progress through comments in this blog. The diverse research interests they’re pursuing signify not only the multiplicity of avenues worth studying, but also the program’s role in cultivating agile analytical minds.

Politics, Social Movements, and Conflict

  • framing the Middle East : an analysis of the U.S. media coverage of the Second Intifada
  • Gezi protests through an anarchist perspective
  • reactions to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Iranian non-governmental social media
  • the diplomatic rehabilitation of Bashar Al-Assad
  • Abdulhamid II: mighty sultan or a despot?
  • narallel Narratives: exploring political incapacity and colonial occupation in Palestine and Georgia
  • the reception of Gezi events by the witnesses
  • the transnational networks of the Gülen movement as a manifestation of Islamic revivalism abroad

Identity, Representation, and Social Justice

  • construction of the “Other” in parliament speeches of Turkish political parties
  • now we can walk with our heads held high: honor crimes in the Middle East
  • Hebrewism over Judaism: examining Canaanism through the poetry and politics of Yonatan Ratosh
  • on Feminist counter-violence: to kill for liberation under patriarchal state/justice: evidences from Turkey between 2010 and 2023

Migration and Mobility

  • analyzing the impacts of Middle Eastern immigration to Germany by the agency of the immigrants: cultural and socio-psychological experiences of immigrants, focus on Berlin and Turkey
  • migration of Yemenis to Germany
  • Ismailia to Berlin: an autoethnography
  • Stereotyping of Turkish Immigrants and Cultural clashes between early and new generations of Turkish immigrants to Germany

Urban Studies, Public Space, and Social and Cultural Practices

  • stray animals of Istanbul in its historical and urban culture
  • reclaiming spaces from a Feminist approach – a case study of Istanbul
  • the spatial politics of the films of early 20th century Istanbul
  • public bathing as a medicinal space (late early modern to the start of the modern era Ottoman Empire)
  • spiritual counseling services in public hospitals provided by the religious affairs directorate in Turkey in relation to secularism discussions
  • the role of Qat in Yemeni society and politics
  • narrative map of the layers of memory associated with the Dome of the Rock
  • cultural heritage and repatriation amid the postcolonial age: discussion on the Pergamon Museum
  • voices from the streets: exploring the dynamics and impact of Sokak Röportajları (street interviews) in Turkey
  • What do ‘Increasing Spiritual New Age Practices’ tell us?
  • Sports understanding in petro-dollar rich Middle Eastern Countries

Environmental Studies and Globalization

  • Turkey’s agricultural globalization and its effects on the local agriculture – a case study of hazelnut

Language and Knowledge

  • language and power: the story of how language policy turned the world into a class-based society
  • diglossia in the “Arab World” and its role in knowledge production (Egyptian and Syrian)
  • Arabic language instruction in German universities: exploring Orientalist dimensions in academic practices
  • MiddleEastGPT? comparative analysis of Large Language Models’ training data biases
  • criticism on the formation and use of the term ‘Middle East’

Literature, Art, and Philosophy

  • female sleuths in Nihal Karamağaralı’s crime novels
  • Magical Realism as a political technique in contemporary Turkish and Persian novels
  • brushing against tradition: a critical examination of female artistry in the late Ottoman period through the lens of Mihri Rasim
  • the Ottoman Empire and the erasure Armenian Craftspeople, special focus one of the oldest instrument makers in the world: the Zildjian family
  • phenomenology as a method of Talmudic hermeneutics: the case of Amrei Inshei in Bava Kamma

writing seminar, task to confirm the topic for the final paper

Writing time begins!

Write to me an email from your @fu-berlin.de email address with your intended topic (a working title and short description will suffice) and I will then confirm the deadline. This step is administratively necessary. I will only accept papers which have been confirmed during this week, at best by Tuesday, 28.11.2023, 6 PM.

The Art of Unsettling Minds: An Exploration of Challenging Assumptions in Academic Writing

writing seminar, commentary on session #5: challenging assumptions


I. Introduction: Setting the Table for Thought

Welcome, dear reader, to our table of inquiry. Here, we don’t just sip on our coffees; we also drink from the fountain of questioning. Our topic today is as stimulating as a double espresso – challenging assumptions in academic writing. Why, you ask? Because, as we’ve all experienced, a text that merely skates on the surface of established ideas is as engaging as a bland diet of unsalted crackers.

II. The Essence of Academic Inquiry: Why We Challenge Assumptions

In the realm of academic writing, challenging assumptions is not just a fancy exercise. It’s a vital heartbeat. Imagine a world where Galileo never questioned the geocentric model, or if Rosalind Franklin accepted DNA as a simple, straightforward molecule. Boring, right? Academic writing thrives on destabilizing the status quo, akin to adding a twist to a well-known tale, making it intriguing and worth exploring.

III. The Problem with Problems: Beyond the Gap Theory

Traditionally, academic texts focus on filling ‘gaps’. But let’s be honest, not every gap needs filling. Some are as inconsequential as a missing sock. Instead, we should focus on ‘instabilities’ – those tantalizing spots where something is amiss, incomplete, or just plain odd. These are not just gaps; they are the seeds of intellectual curiosity.

IV. The Dance of Destabilization: Techniques in Disguise

How do we introduce these instabilities? It’s a delicate dance. One method is by presenting counterintuitive data – imagine revealing that the villain in a story is actually the hero, jolting the reader’s preconceived notions. Or, by contrasting established views with emerging perspectives, akin to showing that the quiet character in the corner has the most profound insights. And let’s not forget the power of questioning norms, the equivalent of asking why the emperor is, indeed, not wearing any clothes.

V. The Balance of Respectful Challenge

Now, challenging assumptions is not about steamrolling over established beliefs with the arrogance of a know-it-all. It’s about inviting the reader on an enlightening journey. It’s the difference between a teacher who throws facts in your face and one who guides you to the discovery. The key? Back your challenges with evidence, acknowledge different perspectives, and aim to enlighten, not belittle.

VI. Engaging the Reader: The Art of Intellectual Seduction

The ultimate goal is to engage the reader. You don’t want your reader nodding off; you want them on the edge of their seat, eagerly turning the page. This requires a mix of clarity, metaphoric creativity, and an invitation to self-reflection. It’s like being a magician who doesn’t just perform tricks but encourages the audience to ponder the mysteries of the universe.

VII. Conclusion: The Joy of Intellectual Unrest

In conclusion, challenging assumptions in academic writing is not just about being contrarian. It’s about sparking curiosity, pushing boundaries, and engaging in a deeper exploration of ideas. It’s a celebration of intellectual unrest, a testament to the human spirit’s unending quest for understanding. So, as you return to your writing, remember: the best academic texts don’t just inform; they provoke thought, inspire change, and, above all, awaken the mind.


This essay is an ode to the art of challenging assumptions. It’s an invitation to join the ranks of thinkers who aren’t afraid to ask, “What if?” and “Why not?” Let’s continue to unsettle minds, including our own, for it is in this intellectual upheaval that true learning and understanding are born.

writing seminar, session #5: techniques to challenge assumptions

What does “challenging assumptions” mean?

  • Questioning commonly held beliefs or ‘taken-for-granted’ ideas within a topic.
  • Encouraging readers to reconsider or reevaluate their preconceptions.
  • Fosters constructive dialogue and deeper understanding.
  • Maintains reader engagement and credibility of the writer.

Technique #1: Contrasting Perspectives

Contrasting Established Views with Emerging Perspectives

Example Topic: “Evolution of Turkish Nationalism”

What assumption to challenge?

Contrast traditional views of Turkish nationalism with recent sociopolitical changes, highlighting assumptions about nationalism’s static nature.

  • Traditional Assumption: Turkish nationalism is a monolithic and unchanging ideology.
  • Modern Perspective: Recent sociopolitical changes suggest a dynamic and evolving nature of Turkish nationalism.
  • Example: Contrast the Kemalist vision of nationalism with the influence of contemporary political movements.

Further applications

  • Highlight how recent political events challenge the static view of nationalism.
  • Discuss the role of globalization and digital media in reshaping national identity.

Sample Phrases

  • “Traditionally viewed as [traditional perspective], recent developments suggest a shift towards [new perspective].”
  • “While historically [historical belief], emerging evidence points to [contrasting belief].”
  • “Once considered [old assumption], now we see signs of [new assumption].”

More metaphoric:

  • “Like shifting sands, the once solid ground of [traditional view] is now being reshaped by the winds of [new perspective].”
  • “In the garden of [topic], new seeds of [new perspective] are sprouting, offering a fresh landscape that contrasts with the old growth of [traditional view].”

Technique #2: Counterintuitive Data

Using Data to Challenge Assumptions

Example Topic: “Effects of Globalization on Turkey’s Agriculture”

What assumption to challenge?

Present unexpected data on globalization’s impact, challenging assumptions about its universally negative/positive effects.

  • Common Assumption: Globalization uniformly harms traditional agricultural practices.
  • Counterintuitive Data: Studies showing globalization’s role in revitalizing certain agricultural sectors.
  • Example: Present data on increased diversity in crop cultivation due to global demand.

Further applications

  • Discuss how globalization can lead to both preservation and transformation of traditional agriculture.
  • Analyze the complex relationship between global markets and local farming practices.

Sample phrases

Surprising Data Points:

  • “Contrary to popular belief, data shows that [counterintuitive fact], overturning the common narrative of [assumption].”
  • “The numbers tell a different story: [counterintuitive data], challenging the widely held assumption that [common belief].”
  • “Surprisingly, statistical evidence reveals [counterintuitive fact], which runs counter to the general assumption of [common belief].”

Metaphoric Phrases for Emphasis:

  • “Like a mirror reflecting an unexpected image, data on [topic] reveals [counterintuitive fact], contradicting the familiar face of [common belief].”
  • “Data acts as a flashlight in the dark room of [topic], illuminating surprising facts like [counterintuitive data] that challenge the shadows of [common belief].”

Technique #3: Questioning Norms

Questioning Cultural and Social Norms

Example Topic: “Women’s Rights in Iran Post-Revolution”

What assumption to challenge?

Question the assumption that women’s rights have remained static or regressed post-revolution, using specific examples.

  • Assumption: Post-revolution, women’s rights in Iran have either stagnated or regressed.
  • Questioning the Norm: Instances of progressive movements and policy changes affecting women’s rights.
  • Example: Highlight women’s participation in politics and education as counterexamples.

Further applications

  • Analyze the evolving landscape of women’s rights in Iran, challenging the static perception.
  • Discuss how international influences and internal reforms are reshaping women’s roles.

Sample phrases

Challenging Accepted Norms:

  • “It’s time to question the established norm that [common belief], as emerging evidence suggests [contrary evidence].”
  • “The widely accepted idea that [common belief] is now under scrutiny, with [new evidence] suggesting a different reality.”
  • Challenging the norm of [common belief], recent studies indicate [new findings], prompting a reevaluation of our understanding.”

More metaphoric:

  • “Peeling back the layers of [topic], we uncover that the core belief of [common belief] may be more fiction than fact, as evidenced by [new findings].”
  • “In the tapestry of [topic], the thread of [common belief] is being rewoven by [new findings], revealing a pattern previously unseen.”

Provocative Questions:

  • “What lies beneath the surface of [accepted norm]?”
  • “Is it time to rethink our stance on [norm]?”
  • “Challenging the status quo: Could [norm] be misleading?”

Technique #4: Historical Context

Revisiting History to Challenge Present Assumptions

Example Topic: “Middle East Politics During the Late Middle Ages”

What assumptions to challenge?

Use historical events to challenge modern perceptions of Middle Eastern politics.

  • Modern Assumption: Middle Eastern politics are predominantly shaped by recent events.
  • Historical Perspective: Influence of medieval policies and cultural shifts on current politics.
  • Example: Discuss the impact of medieval trade routes on modern economic alliances.

Further applications

  • Compare medieval governance structures with contemporary political systems.
  • Explore the continuity and change in diplomatic relations from the Middle Ages to now.

Sample phrases

  • “A dive into history challenges the current assumption of [modern belief], as historical events like [example] paint a different picture.”
  • “Looking back at [historical event], it becomes clear that our current understanding of [topic] might be missing key historical insights.”
  • “Historical context, particularly [historical example], challenges the modern narrative of [modern belief], suggesting a more complex reality.”

More metaphorical:

  • “Like an echo from the past, the events of [historical period] resonate in our current understanding of [topic], challenging modern assumptions.”
  • “History acts as a lens, bringing into focus the blurred lines of [modern belief], with events like [historical example] offering clarity.”

Technique #5: Reader Reflection

Encouraging Reader Self-Reflection

Example Topic: “Critique of ‘Anti-Colonial’ Rhetoric”

What assumptions to challenge?

Encourage readers to reflect on their understanding of anti-colonial rhetoric and its implications in modern discourse.

  • Assumption: ‘Anti-colonial’ rhetoric is universally progressive and beneficial.
  • Reflective Challenge: Encourage readers to consider the complexity and varied impacts of anti-colonial discourse.
  • Example: Question the effectiveness of anti-colonial rhetoric in addressing contemporary issues.

Further applications

  • Discuss the diverse interpretations and applications of anti-colonial rhetoric in different contexts.
  • Analyze how anti-colonial rhetoric can sometimes oversimplify complex colonial legacies.

Sample phrases

  • “Consider for a moment your own beliefs about [topic]. How might new insights or perspectives challenge these beliefs?”
  • “Reflect on your understanding of [topic]. What assumptions are you holding, and how might they be re-evaluated in light of [new information]?”
  • “Inviting the reader to introspect, one might ask: how does our personal experience shape our view of [topic], and are these views open to challenge?”

More metaphorical:

  • “Imagine your beliefs about [topic] as a canvas. How might new strokes of information add depth and contrast to this existing picture?”
  • “In the garden of your understanding of [topic], what assumptions have taken root, and how might new seeds of thought alter this landscape?”

writing seminar, task for session #6: peer review session

Revise your introduction to subtly challenge assumptions and create generative instability for readers by Thursday 16.11.2023 6 PM.

Post your 1 or 2 paragraph(s) in the blog.

Have your revision “ready” by November 20, as we will have an intensive review session.

Feel free to discuss the matters of problem crafting, instabilities, costs and benefits, gaps in the blog.

We can all benefit from reviewing each other’s topics, paragraphs, feedback.