Here you need to be guided by the description of the assignment: You need to figure out what is the main argument. That means, first, figuring out the main or most important thesis or conclusion and, second, what their main or most important premises are–in other words, the assumptions or statements that they put forward in the hope of convincing us of their conclusion or thesis.
– You should focus on explaining both authors views clearly and concisely and accurately, in your own words. It may be helpful to quote from their paper a little bit, though this is not essential. But if you are using quotations, make sure that you explain them in your own words (unless their meaning is totally obvious and clear). On the other hand, you’re also asked how convincing their arguments are. So you should offer some kind of opinion about that, and that opinion should be supported by reasons. So, obviously, you shouldn’t just say “I find his argument convincing” and leave it at that.
– Your critical assessment doesn’t have to address every aspect of their reasoning. It would be enough, for example, to point out that one of them is relying on a premise that you find questionable (and then explain why it seems questionable to you). Or it would be enough to point out that one of their conclusions has implications that seem false (and then explain why they seem false to you). Or, alternatively, if you agree with his argument, you could offer some additional reason for believing one of his premises.
