Written Work

As a member of technical professions, communication skills are of utmost importance. My strengths in written communication encompass technical writing, as well as professional argument and academic exploration. Below is a listing of out-takes from my portfolio, including linked samples of my work.

As a complement to my technical endeavors, I occasionally engage in editing and consulting services. For more information, please direct your inquiries to eckertd@gmail.com.

Analysis

  • Historical American Punishment ~ April 2008
    As a component of my studies in historical American law, I have learned about the evolving nature of punishment standards and methods in the American judicial system. This document is a brief analysis and summary of the progress made in capital punishment and incarceration tactics during the 19th century.
  • Judicial Mercies ~ February 2008
    In modern American courtrooms, juries and judges have vast discretion in their ability to convict and sentence those who argue before them. Similarly, courts of early America had tools of discretion at their disposal to enact leniance in cases where such action seemed merited.
  • Rhetorical Influence: Sociopolitical Manipulation ~ October 2007
    This short analytical discussion is an example of Neo-Aristotelian rhetorical analysis. Neo-Aristotelian analysis is used to examine literature through the lens of emotion (pathos), logic (logos), and character (ethos). My analysis investigates the use of Neo-Aristotelian elements in the 2002 State of the Union address.
  • The Tides of Administrative Politics ~ September 2007
    Besides Neo-Aristotelian analysis, investigation of general trends is a good way to compare rhetorical works. As in any other formal writing, analytical work must embody a circumspect perspective. This report of trends in recent State of the Union addresses exhibits my ability to circumspectly discuss my rhetorical analysis.
  • Nineteenth-Century Sociopolitical Reform in America ~ May 2006
    Time is occasionally of the essence in situations where detail and communication are not to be sacrificed. This essay is an exploration of social politics and reform trends in American history — completed in 90 minutes with a defined scope of reference material.

Opinion

  • A Force of Change ~ November 2007
    Analytical review does not always demand carefully-cited research and ponderance. This extemporaneous look at issues in Middle-East national identity formation was completed in 30 minutes without the availability of reference material.
  • Empire Builders ~ November 2007
    Just as A Force of Change exemplifies the occasional necessity of opionated review, this document is an example of writing used to assert a perspective. Empire Builders is summary examination of the Spanish and Ottoman Empires, and a good example of monologue assertion.
  • Exemplary Teacher ~ October 2007
    In cases of public discourse, short and powerful opinions of position are the weapons of choice. This brief statement is a reaction to the upheld dismissal of Enloe High School faculty member Robert Escamilla by the Wake County School Board following an appellate review.