Metaphysics

Description

1. Choose three philosophers from either the text or class discussion whose philosophy you will analyze and to which you will respond.

2. These philosophers must be approved by me in advance. (See syllabus schedule or course calendar or the “Assignments, Term Paper Etc.” icon under “Assessment Tools” for the exact due date and time and further instructions).

3. Your paper must accomplish two objectives:

A. Analyze and compare the philosophers’ views and arguments concerning a philosophical topic that the class has discussed this semester. That is, describe the views of the philosophers you have chosen concerning the philosophical topic in question. Explain the arguments for these views provided by each. A thorough analysis will also include some explanation of the consequences of holding this position. Remember to apply the principle of charity–give the argument the most positive portrayal possible!

B. Give your view on this philosophical topic and explain your argument for this position. Show in your argument how your view is consistent or inconsistent with the views of the three philosophers whose views you analyzed. Avoid all of the formal and informal fallacies discussed in class and the text. Remember we evaluate an argument based on its validity and the truth of its premises.

4. This paper should be written for someone who is intelligent, but uninformed about philosophy. Make your explanations for your roommate or someone else who hasn’t studied philosophy.

5. The paper should be no more than six pages (8.5 x 11–letter) in length (if you go longer, say all the important things in the first six pages because I won’t read past page six). The paper should be typed or keyed, double-spaced, 1-inch margins, and 10-point font (arial, courier, or times new roman).

6. The first sentence of this paper should be a quote gleaned from an internet resource that is appropriate to your paper. Don’t forget to use proper footnotes and citations. Remember this is a kind of ‘research paper.’

7. This paper is due at the end of term (see syllabus schedule or course calendar or the “Assignments, Term Paper Etc.” icon under “Assessment Tools” for the exact due date and time and further instructions).

8. Grading Schedule:

Topic and ethicists chosen, and approved by me, (see syllabus schedule or course calendar or the “Assignments, Term Paper Etc.” icon under “Assessment Tools” for the exact due date and time and further instructions). You will turn in five “statements of intent” describing and explaining the following:

The philosophical topic of your paper.
The first philosopher and their position.
The second philosopher and their position.
The third philosopher and their position.
Your position on the above philosophical topic.