Writing assignment

Pre-Writing Assignment -- Phil 1000

(up to 50 points)

I would like you to give me a one page summary of a topic that you intend to write on for your final term paper.  Please send this as an attachment to the drop box as a .doc or .docx file.

In general this is what you should include:

■ A clear statement of a controversial issue that relates to ethics and/or your anticipated major field.  For instance a nursing major might want to discuss euthanasia.  This topic does not necessarily need to be in your major area but it might help you to formulate a topic.■ The first section should be some arguments which support one main side of the view.  Try and list some specific arguments and if you can list some sources as well.■ The second section should be arguments which are in favor of some opposing view.

For instance, view one might be arguments in favor of euthanasia for those with severe brain damage and are in a coma.  The next view could be arguments against euthanasia in the same case.

■ The final paragraph should include your synthesis between the two views.  Which view do you like best and why?

Now, I understand that you cannot get much done in just a page and you’re welcome to write more of a rough draft.  The more work you do now, the less work you’ll need to do at the end of the term.

You can use bullet points or even a full rough draft, whatever you send me I’ll make extensive comments on to aid in the progress of your term paper.  Also feel free to email me a short segment on your topic and I can offer quick feedback before you start on this assignment.  Try to also gather some sources.  Copying something off of procon.org will yield a zero.

Also, you must include some discussion of an ethical theory from Chapter 9. I would suggest using Kantian theory or utilitarianism but rights based or virtue ethics may work as well.  

Submission Instructions – These are due as an attachment in the drop box where you found this assignment.  Papers sent as an email or in the text box on the drop box will lose 5 points. Again, in the assignments area you just click on the title ‘pre-writing assignment’ and you should be able to attach your .docxor .doc file.