total words That are I need is 350 words, 250 for the Texas Exceptionalism

and 100 word for a replay to one of my classmates.

Here is Participation Topic #1: Do Texans exhibit “Texas Exceptionalism,” the belief that Texas is inherently different from and superior to the other 49 states? Is the belief warranted, or do we merely (and mistakenly) think it’s exceptional? If we exhibit “Texas Exceptionalism,” is this attribute a net positive or net negative?

You must post at least two (2) times for full credit. You must post: 1) a substantial (250-word minimum) original answer to the question; and, 2) a substantial (100-word minimum) reply to a colleague.

Take care to formulate arguments, not simple declarative statements. An argument is a well-developed, clearly stated line of reasoning aimed at convincing others of the truth or fallacy of a statement.

“Reasoned” means you’ve thought about the question and present your ideas in a coherent fashion. It does not mean that I or your classmates agree with you.

You will encounter a variety of viewpoints on volatile topics over the course of the semester. You may disagree, perhaps strongly, with opinions expressed by your classmates (and almost certainly, me).

As long as we treat each other with respect, these differences enhance class discussion and create an atmosphere where we learn from each other. Rest assured that your grades will not be influenced by beliefs or ideas expressed on the discussion boards.

And though all the winds of doctrine were let loose to play upon the earth, so Truth be in the field, we do injuriously, by licensing and prohibiting, to misdoubt her strength. Let her and Falsehood grapple; who ever knew Truth put to the worse, in a free and open encounter?
–Milton, Aeropagitica, 1643

Participation is graded on whether your comments are thoughtful and coherent, respond directly to the question (or another post in the board), contribute something new to the discussion, reflect an effort to move the discussion along, bring some evidence to your argument, and reflect an understanding of the course materials.

NOTE: I take spelling, grammar, and composition into account when grading your work. Your work must be well-written to receive full credit.

I need a reply to this topic for one of my classmates
2) a substantial (100-word minimum) reply to a colleague.

I’m a third-generation Texan, born and raised in the oil fields of West Texas, and have seen first-hand the prevalent Texas Exceptionalism that exists in our state. My sister has always had a “Texas Forever” mentality and I had friends in high school who were a perfect caricature of the ignorant, racist, beer-drinking Texan. I grew up in a culture that fully supported Texas Exceptionalism, and honestly, it turned me off. It seemed to me that there was nothing exceptional about Texas (outside of the admittedly impressive history of being its own country for a 10-year stretch). However, in the decade and a half since high school, I’ve done a good bit of traveling and have seen more and more that some Texas exceptionalism is warranted. Unlike most places in the world, we are inherently friendly people who never hesitate to lend a hand. We look out for each other’s children, we show up with casseroles and prayers when a family member is sick or dies, and we genuinely care for our neighbors. There really is something special about Texas that can’t be found anywhere else. I believe this is a positive attribute of Texas, even a somewhat self-fulfilling prophecy. When you believe your state is special, you act in the same way. When you buy into the stereotype of friendly Texans, you become a friendly Texan yourself. Though it can certainly come across as arrogance if left unchecked, overall, I believe Texas exceptionalism can be a positive catalyst to make our state even greater.