Write a 5-6 page paper consisting of two parts.Consider carefully the ethical theories we have studied: Natural Law Ethics, Kantian Ethics, Utilitarianism, and Social Contract Theory.
In the first part of this paper present and react to the different theories we have studied. As you conclude this part try to develop your own approach to ethics. Upon what basis do you make ethical decisions? How do the ideas contained in the different theories enter into the way you approach ethical decisions? What is you own ethical theory? Etc. The following guidelines will help you get started with this part:
Using examples, reasons, and arguments attempt to prove or disprove Utilitarianism.
Using examples, reasons, and arguments attempt to prove or disprove Kantian Ethics.
Using examples, reasons, and arguments attempt to prove or disprove Social Contract Ethics.
Using examples, reasons, and arguments attempt to prove or disprove Virtue Ethics, Natural Law ethics, Divine Command Theory and/or ethical egoism.
You need not cover all of the theories, focus on the ones you find most interesting. However do not leave out Kantian ethics and Utilitarianism.
Draw some kind of clear conclusion about these theories: Upon what basis do you make ethical decisions? How do the ideas contained in the different theories enter into the way you approach ethical decisions? What is you own ethical theory? Try to develop your ideas in some detail, maybe give an example or two, etc.
In the second part of this paper pick one of the ethical issues covered in the last half of this course. (Abortion, Altering Genes and Cloning Humans, Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide, Capital Punishment, Sexual Morality and Same-Sex Marriage, Environmental Ethics and Animal Rights, Political Violence: War, Terrorism, and Torture, Global Economic Justice, etc.) Present a general debate of the issue giving both pro and con arguments and your own conclusion. Try to utilize your understanding of the different theories as you develop you views on the topic.
The following guidelines will help you get started with this part:
What is the debate about and why did you choose it?
Present the strongest arguments you can for the pro side of the issue. Be sure to present the arguments as completely and as forcefully as you can, even if you ultimately don’t agree with it.
Present the strongest arguments you can for the con side of the issue. Be sure to present the arguments as completely and as forcefully as you can, even if you ultimately don’t agree with it.
In general, how do you react to the topic? Develop a clearly written conclusion detailing which arguments you find the most convincing. Give reasons for your conclusions and utilize the information from your conclusion in the first part where possible.
