That logic seems like it should be in your service layer; as in the former example. Your createUser() function in the DAO should only have to worry about creating, or adding the user. Let the service layer worry about what to do if the User already exists.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.