Discuss the reasoning and implications of your choice and relate your response to the underlying ethical theories involved as we have presented them in class.

– Goal: To write a short (1200 words or more, double spaced, standard font) philosophy paper on a topic of your choice in consultation with the instructor. You will be graded on clarity of thought and the ability to illustrate an understanding of the topics and themes of one (or some) of the major authors we’ve covered in class. One element of this understanding will be the appropriate use of textual support. That is, the use of quotations from the primary texts, and the ability to assimilate that information in your own words, with your own examples. I do NOT want to see merely regurgitated lecture notes.

– How to conceive of and write your paper: Philosophy papers usually involve both exposition and evaluation. In the expository part of the paper, which in such a short paper should be brief, your task is to explain the view or argument under consideration. Make sure that your explanation is as explicit and accurate as possible. The evaluation part of the paper is your chance to do some philosophy of your own and the key component of the paper. It is not enough merely to state whether you agree or disagree with the philosopher’s conclusion. You should engage with the reasoning. Some questions you might consider: does the argument succeed in getting to the desired conclusion? Which premises are the weakest points of the argument? What objections might be raised to these premises? Are there any ways that her argument could be bolstered to defend against such objections?
As you write, think about your intended audience. You should write your paper as if you imagine your audience as someone who is intelligent and interested in the subject but has not studied it. (Think of yourself, before taking this class, or perhaps a friend in college with some interest in the subject.)

– TOPIC: Is the Death Penalty morally justified? Why or why not? Discuss the reasoning and implications of your choice and relate your response to the underlying ethical theories involved as we have presented them in class. EXPLAIN your position clearly and consider the other side carefully.

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