Applying a Theory (giving to charity for global poverty)

Description

Topic In this paper, you will apply one of the theories (Kant’s deontology or utilitarianism) that we learned in Modules 2 & 3 to your applied ethics topic (animal rights, euthanasia, or global poverty). In order to do this, you must first explain the theory in general, then explain what position you think a Utilitarian or a Kantian would take on a specific issue related to your topic (e.g. vegetarianism for animal rights, giving to charity for global poverty, or assisting someone else in ending his/her life for euthanasia). Specific Instructions for Structuring the Paper This paper should be organized as a typical essay with an Introduction and a Conclusion, as well as including Part I and Part II as follows: Part I Explain either utilitarianism or Kant’s deontology. In doing so, you must explain the core principles or features of the theory (e.g. categorical imperative) as well as how one would decide what one ought to do when faced with a moral dilemma (come up with your own example here). Part II Apply either utilitarianism or deontology to the issue that you’ve decided to focus on from your applied ethics topic. This involves identifying a specific moral conclusion (e.g. it is morally permissible/wrong to kill animals for food according to utilitarianism) and explaining how that conclusion follows from the core principles that you identified in Part I. RUBRIC Introduction (10 pts) Introduction briefly explains the topic discussed in the paper (e.g. the specific issue related to your applied ethics topic) and includes a clear thesis statement. In this paper, your thesis should be a clear statement of the position you think the theory would take on this issue (e.g. “I will argue that if one applies utilitarian moral principles, it is morally wrong/permissible/etc. to……”) Part I: Theory Explanation (28 pts) In this section you must explain either utilitarianism or Kant’s deontology. In doing so, you must explain the core principles or features of the theory (e.g. categorical imperative) as well as how one would decide what one ought to do when faced with a moral dilemma (come up with your own example here). Part II: Applying the Theory (28 pts) In this section you need to apply the core principles or features of the theory you discussed in Part I to the applied ethics issue that you have chosen to focus on. This would involve identifying a specific moral conclusion (e.g. it is morally permissible/wrong to kill animals for food according to utilitarianism) and explaining how that conclusion follows from what you’ve explained in Part 1. Remember, your reasons should provide good evidence that your conclusion is true or at least plausible. *Go back and review the Topics in Module 1 if you need a reminder on how to structure an argument. Conclusion (10 pts) Succinctly and clearly summarizes the topics discussed and restates the thesis. Overall Readability and Mechanics (8 pts) Free of spelling and grammatical errors. Natural and appropriate word choice. Overall Structure and Organization (8 pts) Discussion of different topics clearly indicated in text. Smooth transitions between sections, easy for reader to follow throughout. Originality of Thought (8 pts) Paper demonstrates original and creative critical thinking.

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