One way to write an interesting philosophy paper is to explain and compare contrasting ideas and attempt to adjudicate between them. In this week’s module, there are four articles which discuss and advance contrasting viewpoints on assisted dying. (Some of these contrasting viewpoints are mentioned in the descriptions under each article on the Module 3 Content page.) For this assignment you will write a brief essay in which you will contrast opposing ideas from two of these papers and then give your viewpoint as to which of them is better supported.
Objective
The purpose of this assignment is for you to explain at least two contrasting viewpoints on assisted dying and to critically evaluate these views in relation to one another.
Instructions
Read
The Assigned Content for this week’s module.
You must discuss viewpoints from the assigned articles in your essay.
assigned reading will be in the uploaded files
Reflect
What are two contrasting viewpoints advanced in the assigned articles for this week?
These viewpoints should be on the same subject and opposed to one another.
What is the reasoning offered for these viewpoints?
Do the philosophers base their viewpoints on principles, thought experiments, or argumentation?
Which viewpoint is more compelling? Which is better supported?
Make sure you are not simply reporting which viewpoint you personally agree with. Give reasoning for your opinion.
Compose 2 PAGE
Write a short response of about 500 words (roughly a page, single-spaced) in which you discuss your conclusions and reflections from above and post your work by clicking “reply” below.
Make sure to use specific details from the text in your discussion.
You may choose to use the format of the Sample Paper below to organize your essay.
Sample Paper
Assisted Dying
Viewpoint 1
According to [author 1], [state viewpoint 1]. [Author 1] supports this viewpoint using the following reasons. [Explain the reasons that support viewpoint 1.]
Viewpoint 2
According to [author 2], [state viewpoint 2]. [Author 2] supports this viewpoint using the following reasons. [Explain the reasons that support viewpoint 2.]
Adjudication
My own view is that [viewpoint 1/viewpoint 2] is better supported. This is because … [explain your reasoning.]
Module Discussion compose 1 PAGE
In your Discussion assignments, you are free to discuss any idea, argument, or issue related this module’s content that piques your interest or about which you have something you want to say.
Possible question to answer will be posted in our chat : STILL WORKING ON IT….. OR IF YOU HAVE IDEA LET ME KNOW.
Objective
The purpose of this assignment is for you to discuss your own thoughts and reflections on this module’s content, and those of your peers, in a productive manner.
Instructions
Read
The content for this module.
You are free to do outside research as well (just make sure to use proper citation if you do).
The posts and comments of your peers will be posted in our chat.
compose 1PAGE should answer the comments.
Reflect
In your reading of this material, were there any ethical claims or arguments that stood out to you as unclear, unpersuasive, or even completely wrong? How about profound, deeply insightful, or obviously correct?
If so, reflect on why and try to articulate the reasons behind your reactions.
Critique these reactions: if a claim or argument seemed to you obviously incorrect, try to understand why a smart person would make and defend it; if obviously correct, try to think of good reasons to doubt it.
Compose
Write a response in which you discuss your conclusions and reflections from above and post your work to the discussion board by clicking “reply” below, or underneath the post or comment of a peer.
Make sure to use specific details from the course content in your contributions.
Engage
Keep an eye on this forum and respond to any feedback of your peers in a respectful and thoughtful manner.
You should acknowledge feedback even if you are not going to provide a substantive response.
You may participate in this Discussion by leaving a top-level post or by commenting on the posts or comments of your peers.
Check Your Work
Ask yourself these questions to determine whether your work is ready to submit:
Have I used specific details from the text to explain:
two viewpoints from the assigned content which are on the same topic and which oppose one another,
the reasoning offered for each of these viewpoints, and
my own evaluation of these viewpoints, including which of the two is better supported?
Have I demonstrated understanding and engagement with the assigned materials in my essay?
Evaluation
Your grade for this assignment will be based on how well your response meets the following criteria.
Clarity
No major issues with grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
Writing is simple and straightforward.
Avoids vague or ambiguous language.
Philosophical and technical terms are defined.
Thoughtfulness
All aspects of the question are addressed adequately.
Philosophical positions/views are explained adequately.
Accuracy
Claims about the ideas covered in the text are consistent with that source.
Concepts are defined accurately and used correctly.
No obvious factual errors.
