Paper #2 Guideline

Due Date: Monday, December 17th, 2007

Worth: 5% of final grade

Assignment: Write an argumentative essay on one of the topics below. Papers must be typed, and must be between 300-600 words long. Provide a word count on the first page of the paper. (Most programs like Microsoft Word & WordPerfect have automatic word counts.)

1. Compare and contrast two ethical theories we’ve discussed in class. Explain how each theory helps us to figure out what we ought to do when faced with ethical decision making. Focus on specific moral decisions as examples to highlight the differences in the theories. In your opinion, which theory provides a better picture of morality? Be sure to explain and defend your position.

2. Provide a detailed criticism of one of the ethical theories we’ve discussed in class. First, explain the theory, and present a charitable argument (what you take to be the best argument) in its favor. Then critically evaluate the argument. What are good objections to the argument? Consider how a proponent of the theory might respond to your objections, and explain why these responses are unsuccessful.

3. Which do you think is more important in determining whether an action is morally right or wrong: the consequences of the action (what happens as a result of the action), or the motivations behind the action (the reasons why someone chooses that action over other actions)? Why? [NOTE: I’m not looking for one right choice here. You can choose either side, as long as you defend it with a well-reasoned argument.] Explain an ethical theory that we have studied that cares more about the consequences of an action. Then name an ethical theory that we have studied that cares more about the motivations behind actions. In arguing for one side over the other, describe a specific moral dilemma in which these theories would give different decisions based on the action’s consequences vs. its motivations. Be sure to fully explain and defend your position.

4. Within the parameters of ethical theories discussed in class, write on a topic of your choosing. (Sean must approve your topic by December 12th.)