Crafting a Strong Thesis: Prof. Philip Buckley's Lecture at UIII

UIII.AC.ID, DEPOK - The Faculty of Islamic Studies at the Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) was honored to host Prof. Philip Buckley, the McGill UNESCO Chair in Global Asia and Humanities at McGill University, Canada, delivering a public lecture on "How to Write a Thesis in the Social Sciences and Humanities”.

Professor Buckley, renowned for his expertise in the field, shared his wisdom with the eager audience comprising students and faculty members. His address encompassed multifaceted aspects crucial for navigating the intricate journey of thesis composition.

The crux of Prof. Buckley's discourse lay in the significance of cultivating a definitive focus right from the inception of a thesis. He emphasized that while research invariably leads to adjustments and developments, establishing a clear thesis position at the outset serves as a cornerstone for academic progress. According to him, this approach provides a sturdy framework adaptable enough to accommodate the evolution of ideas during the research process.

"Your contribution to your self-understanding and through your research, grounded in your social science background, is pivotal," emphasized Prof. Buckley. He stressed the importance of understanding one's unique perspective and the role it plays in contributing to the scholarly discourse.

Moreover, Prof. Buckley delved into ethical considerations in research, highlighting the need to address moral questions and steer away from purely instrumental outcomes. He prompted students to engage with subjects that resonate personally, thereby infusing passion into their academic pursuits.

Throughout the lecture, the professor engaged the audience with thought-provoking examples, such as the resilience needed when faced with criticisms regarding the relevance of one's research. He emphasized the importance of developing a social engagement aspect within the thesis, ensuring a meaningful impact beyond the academic sphere.

Professor Buckley's advice extended to the creative aspects of thesis writing, urging students to craft engaging titles and creative content. "Start with a title that reflects your passion and enthusiasm for the topic," he advised. His encouragement for creative expression flowed from the title to the table of contents, aiming to captivate readers and infuse joy into the writing process.

The lecture by Prof. Philip Buckley served as a guiding light for budding researchers at UIII. His emphasis on establishing a clear thesis focus while allowing room for evolution resonated deeply, providing a compass for students embarking on their scholarly journeys.

The Faculty of Islamic Studies extends its gratitude to Prof. Buckley for sharing his expertise and inspiring the academic community at UIII. His insights will undoubtedly shape and enhance the quality of research endeavors undertaken by the university's scholars.

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