1. Abortion: In your essay, you will have to present an argument against either Thomson’s position (pro-choice) or Marquis’ position (pro-life). To do so you must construct your essay as follows:
1. First, provide a complete account of the argument that THEY present. This is important, so do not rush through this.
2. Second, you must provide your own argument against their position. To do this, it is not enough to simply cite your beliefs. You must show why there are problems in the argument that they present. In other words, you MUST focus only on what they write.
3. For example, if you argue against Thomson, you must show why her example of the violinist is a weak argument in favor of pro-choice.
4. If you argue against Marquis, you must show why his focus on potential life experiences is not an adequate defense of the pro-life position.
5. YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO AGREE WITH THE PERSON YOU CHOOSE. The point is to pick an article you DISAGREE with.
2. Euthanasia: you will have to present an argument against either Singer’s position) or Callahan’s position. To do so, you must construct your essay as indicated in the above option, by first choosing the side you DISAGREE with, providing their argument in full, and then giving your argument against their claims. Again, do NOT cite your beliefs. The point is to find holes or problems in the claims that they make.
I know that many of you may be tempted to cite religion here, especially given the nature of the topic at hand. Again, I implore you to not do this. Argue against the person you choose on their ground, to show why their argument is problematic.
