Explain and defend or critique one of the theories we have studied. This is a thesis defense essay. This is not a research paper. You only need your textbook and your own brilliant thinking. It should be a blend of 1)accurately presenting the philosophies and 2) evaluating/applying/comparing them. Step 2 can include your reasoned opinions, personal experience, jokes, etc. Here are some possibilities: a) Although psychological egoism sounds plausible, it is probably not true. In this paper, I will explain… b) Stoicism is enriching for three primary reasons. In your paper, explain each of those reasons. Quote them. Use real-world examples. c) Although relativism seems plausible, it is actually false. It does not present a strong framework for understanding morality nor does it lead to the highest life possible for an individual. In this paper, I will… d) American newborn circumcision is right/wrong because… (be sure to incorporate theories and facts) e) In this paper, I will argue genital mutilation is wrong because… In the process, I will critique popular relativism and subjectivism because they cannot truly recognize genital mutilation, slavery, or other evils as wrong. f) In this paper, I will explore human trafficking through three ethical lenses. g) In this paper, I will explain why ____________ is the ethical theory that gives us the best insights and best guidance for living a good life. h) What is evil? Why do good people perform evil acts? How can we reduce evil? In this paper, I will use the “experiments” of Milgram, Stanford, and Jane Elliot to answer these three questions. i) Following ethical egoism will/will not lead to the best life possible for you… j) The purpose of this paper is to explain and critique/defend Hobbes’ Social Contract Theory. k) In this paper, I will explain how morality differs from law, etiquette, religion, cultural approval, individual preference, and art. I will then offer a deeper- though tentative- definition of morality.
