A Value Claim: What is the Value of Art? Background: A value claim is an argumentative research paper which makes a qualifiable assertion; in other words, it is an argument (claim) about a moral, aesthetic, or philosophical topic (value). Assignment: Although most people think they know what art is, they are often at a loss to define it. What is art? Write a value claim essay that defines art and offers an answer to the following question: What is the moral, aesthetic, or philosophical value of art? Advice: There are several ways to approach this assignment—there is no one correct answer—it all depends on how well you communicate your points. You can focus your value claim on one artist, a type of art, type of music, a film director, a fashion designer, an architect, or whatever aspect of art you would like to examine. You can also write about one of the artists we discussed in class or any artist you would like to examine. Make sure you have a clear thesis (claim) to defend and that you demonstrate your topic (value) with concrete, detailed examples. You may draw those examples from the course readings; however, you must also cite at least four outside sources—at least two from the LBCC databases (newspapers, journals, e-books, videos) and at least two from the internet (websites, newspapers, blogs, videos, podcasts). There is no limit on the number of sources you can use—use however many you need to support your claim. Recommended MLA Guide: Purdue Owl Website (https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/purdue_owl.html) Criteria for Evaluation: How effectively you support your claim How effectively you analyze and evaluate your subject How effectively you examine multiple perspectives How effectively you demonstrate your points How effectively you employ critical thinking How effectively you describe your examples