Final Papers, Introduction to Ethics

Requirements and Possible Topics

 Requirements:

1. Must be a paper for this course
2. Must analyze at least two of the theories we’ve discussed this term
3. Length: approximately 8 pages, maximum 12 (if you’re going over 12, contact me to discuss)
4. If you deal with a topic covered in class, you must deal with the readings and lectures for that topic
5. Remember: There is no final exam in here. This is the last grade I have for you in the course
6. Must have at least 2 outside sources (one must be something other than a website, i.e.: article, book, interview, etc.)
7. Must have a descriptive title that alerts me as to what your paper is about
8. Must follow checklist and guidelines distributed in class at start of semester (as with your previous papers)

 Possible Topics

Note: You can write your final paper on your group presentation topic

      v     What do you think an adequate moral theory should look like?

      v     Pick a controversial topic and analyze what at least two of the theories we discussed would have to say about that topic (ie: gay marriage, cloning, affirmative action, civil disobedience, animal rights, euthanasia, environmental issues, health care, racism, sexism)

v     Relationship between religion and ethics revisited. You might look at the place of religion in two of the theories we’ve discussed.

v     Feminist critique of utlitarianism and Kantian ethics

v     Cultural Relativism: Pick a topic dealing with multiculturalism (veiling, female genital mutilation, group rights, religious diversity) and explain how a cultural relativist would respond. Then pick one (or more) other theories and analyze how those committed to that theory would respond

v     Pick a book or film and analyze the ethical issues at work in the book/film. Remember to deal with at least two theories. This must be a different book/film from the one you explored for your second paper

 Remember: This is not a research paper. It is an analytical paper. Your paper must have a thesis and must examine the implications of the claims under discussion. Remember to read the essay criteria I gave to you in class.