Ethical Theory Final Paper Assignment

                                                                                Final Paper Assignment

Select one of the four applied ethical issues that we have discussed in class (you may NOT choose the issue that you covered in your Group Presentation). Present an argumentative paper on the issue by:

(a) presenting athesis on the topic;

(b) explainingsome of the main argumentspresented in the articles we read for class;

(c) critiquing these arguments in a way that supports your thesis;

(d) discussing the ideas and arguments of an outside scholarly article;

(e) evaluating these various arguments in light of the ethical theories discussed in class.

As you analyze the various arguments and positions of the different authors, you need to make significant connections to three of the main ethical theories we have discussed in class. Here you will be graded on the breadth and depth of your analysis in terms of drawing out the significant connections. (For example, you do not want to refer to Egoism only in terms of doing what is good for oneself. Rather you should draw out the relevant concepts, arguments, or approaches that are distinct to that specific ethical theory and show how it relates to a specific argument, an author’s position, or the overall issue itself (even if not discussed in any of the articles on your topic.)

Finally, you should conclude your paper with a short section in which you explain which ethical theory is the best one by which to approach not only your specific topic but also ethics in general. That is, provide a few main reasons why you think that specific ethical theory is clearer, more consistent, and more comprehensive than the other ethical theories discussed in class. 

Expectations and Criteria for Papers:

1. Provide a clearly stated thesis.  That is, you must present a specific and sharply defined statement of your position that you defend consistently throughout your paper.

2. Present a well-organizedpaperso that it includes: (a) an introduction, (b) the body (a number of paragraphs that addresses distinct aspects or specific issues), and (c) a conclusion.

3. Provide accurate and detailed explanationsof some main ideas and arguments from the articles.  It is better to go into greater depth and explanation on a few ideas and arguments rather than mentioning more without adequately clarifying and elaborating upon them. Do not merely state but explain!  Your main aim is always to demonstrate your understanding.

4. Conduct outside research on the topic by finding a philosophical text that discusses your issue.  You can consult the libraries  (Any online resource MUST be checked with me!)  Your presentation of the positions and arguments offered in the articles should be clear with an emphasis upon ideas or arguments different from the articles we discussed in class.

5. Offer accurate, consistentand thoughtful analysis and evaluation of the various ideas, arguments, and theories. Any fresh ideas, insights, connections, examples, etc. add to the overall quality of your paper.

6. Make some significant connections to three of the main ethical theories that were studied in class. Draw out the relevant concepts, arguments, or approaches that are distinct to that specific ethical theory and show how it relates to a specific argument, an author’s position, or the overall issue itself.

7. Explain which ethical theory is the best one by which to approach not only your specific topic but also ethics in general. Provide a few main reasons why you think that specific ethical theory is clearer, more consistent, and more comprehensive than the other ethical theories discussed in class. 

8. An appropriate number of quotations from the texts should be included. Any quotation needs to be followed by an explanation or summation of the quotation in your own words.  Proper citation is required.  (Chicago style is preferred but MLA format is acceptable.)

9.  Provide a strong defense of your thesis by offering strong evidence and reasonsfor your position. Your aim is to convince your reader! 

10. No grammatical errors.  The paper should be typed in blank ink, double-spaced, with one-inch margins, and stapled! Proofread!

Length: 7-8 pages

Due Date: May 14 by 3:00 p.m.

You must:

1. Deliver a hard copy to my office: Arrupe, 330. (Slide your paper beneath the door if I am not in my office.)

2. Upload anelectronic copyof your paper to Blackboard.