Traditionally, it is customary to include a list of propositions, and sometimes a humorous proposition, with a dissertation. The doctoral candidate, in this case, you, must be prepared to defend these propositions against opponents. In this article, we explore the concept of “dissertation propositions,” including examples and requirements. The aim is to help you come up with original, critical, or even entertaining propositions for your dissertation.
Coming up with dissertation propositions is a unique process for everyone. Some breeze through it, while others struggle to come up with ideas. For those in the latter group, a few tips and examples can provide the much-needed push to get started.
Tips for Dissertation Propositions
Let’s start with a general tip: generate as many dissertation propositions as possible. Some will inevitably be discarded, but this way, you’ll still have enough to include in your dissertation. Before we dive into examples, here are some additional tips for creating original, interesting, or humorous propositions for your dissertation:
- Propositions should be original. Create them yourself and avoid copying propositions from others. However, you may draw inspiration from others. Use the thought process behind the proposition, not the proposition itself.
- Ensure the propositions are relevant to your dissertation. This does not apply to humorous propositions, which will be discussed in the next section. Create propositions that directly relate to the core of your dissertation.
- Propositions should be current. A proposition directly tied to your dissertation is also likely to be current.
The final tip is to avoid underestimating the importance of propositions. This section is often the first page of your dissertation that readers will see. It can serve as a kind of “business card,” immediately capturing or losing the reader’s interest. Therefore, it’s essential to make a strong impression with this “business card.” Additionally, well-formulated propositions that address societal issues may attract media attention. This provides an opportunity for additional publicity for your dissertation, so we recommend handling this carefully.
Examples of Dissertation Propositions
Below are some examples of propositions from published dissertations by PhD graduates. We begin with examples from Suzanne Booij.
Suzanne Booij, November 12: Wishes for the end of life in Huntington’s Disease.
- Patients with Alzheimer’s disease are well able to share their experiences of the disease, their fears, and their hopes. M.E. de Boer et al., AJOB Primary Research 2011.
- “I wish I’d spent more time at the office” is not a commonly heard statement at the end of life. (Unknown)
- A choice can only be made if there is something to choose from. Jean M. Auel, The Shelters of Stone, 2011.
Leontien van der Aa, October 15, 2010: The effects of a synbiotic in infants with atopic dermatitis.
- A formula containing Bifidobacterium breve M-16V and an oligosaccharide mixture alters gut flora to a composition with more bifidobacteria and fewer potentially pathogenic bacteria, similar to breastfed infants.
Frans Dekker, November 5: Patients’ preference in migraine.
- One person’s wonder drug is another’s curse.
- Nearly half of all triptans used in the Netherlands are wasted due to incorrect use.
Humorous Propositions for Your Dissertation
Earlier, we briefly mentioned humorous propositions. Here, we’ll explain what they are. Every dissertation contains a final proposition, which is sometimes referred to as a humorous proposition. It acts as a kind of “closer,” often with a humorous aspect. However, not every university requires the inclusion of a humorous proposition in a dissertation. Below are two examples of humorous propositions that garnered media attention.
- The best propositions are made of wood. (Robertus Adrianus Eek, Mechanical Engineering, TU Delft)
- Speaking in public is easy with a mobile phone. (R.L. Roothaert, Wageningen University)
Requirements for Formulating Dissertation Propositions
Now that we’ve discussed dissertation propositions, tips, and examples, let’s examine whether there are any specific requirements for formulating them. In principle, there are no strict requirements. Naturally, it’s logical for propositions to relate to or stem from the dissertation, but this is more a matter of content than form. We also know that propositions should be original, but again, this is more “important” than a strict requirement. The same applies to making propositions thought-provoking. Speaking of originality, a proposition is likely to be considered original if it directly relates to your dissertation.
Are Dissertation Propositions Mandatory?
Earlier, we mentioned that not all universities require a sheet of propositions to be added to the dissertation. Some universities do, while others don’t. You can check the PhD regulations of the university where you hope to graduate to see if propositions are mandatory. If not, you can still choose to include them.
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