Peer Responses
Peer response/ comment on my outline 1)
Hello D,
My understanding of your argument/thesis is that Alonzo Harris committed the murder of the Russian mobster due to the use of rational choice theory (i.e. he chose to kill the mobster in order to intimidate the Russian mob). I think this theory perfectly describes what Alonzo did within the movie, and I do believe your pick of a theory is an excellent choice. The reason for this is due to the fact that rational choice theory seems to play into a large part of the decisions that Alonzo makes, with the ultimate goal of Alonzo being his supposed survival. Another reason why I think rational choice theory works out incredibly well for this film is that in the situations that are presented in your outline, Alonzo makes rational decisions that will prolong his life. However I do believe your paper could be improved in two different fronts: how rational choice theory plays a part in Jake Hoyt’s life throughout the film, along with examples that shows how Jake Hoyt is influenced by rational choice theory. I also think that a more thorough explanation of how social control theory plays a part into Alonzo and Jake’s dilemma’s would be great to delve into, like for example pointing out what parts of social control theory are being prescribed to by the different characters. I think this would be rather advantageous and beneficial to your overall paper since it would be exploring multiple aspects of both characters and how they are approaching the situations that are being presented to them.
A.C
Peer response/ comment on my outline 2)
My understanding of your argument/thesis
Based on my understanding of your argument, you state that Alonzo’s conduct was falling under the rational choice theory due to his ties with the Russians , such as killing one of their members and having no choice but to do activities that would get him out of trouble with the Russians. You also state that social control theory is a plausible theory that also could fall under Alonzo’s conduct in that Alonzo’s norms and what he has grown up with and been around with has led him to this point of crime as his view is the crime he is committing is justifiable.
What your paper outline does well
1. One thing your outline does extremely well is listing why and how the theories you stated apply to Alonzo’s conduct. I was never confused reading it, and could see why each theory you stated could apply due to how well you summarized the film and described the theories.
2. Another thing your outline does well is that the amount of organization that is in the outline. You provide a clear list of what to expect and how Alonzo’s conduct got him there.
Ways you can improve your paper or paper topic
1. One way you can improve your outline is by listing how the rational choice theory describes the other crimes that Alonzo committed throughout the film.
2. Another way you can improve your paper is by expanding upon the definitions you gave for both the theories and trying to apply that to a broader range of what Alonzo does throughout the film
3. The final recommendation I would give you is trying to state what else has effected Alonzo into doing crime and being corrupt besides his entanglement with the mob.
A.K