). To this end we examined primary texts from Aristotle, Kant, and Mill. Other authors, e.g., Nozick, MacIntyre, and Rawls, were quoted by Sandel, and you are free to check out their books and cite their works as well. Sandel also presented many thought experiments and case studies. Feel free to allude to any of the course material in your essays.
Comprehensive Essay (3 pages, or 800-900 words)
The essay (with introduction, body, and conclusion) must address and cite from and quote Sandel’s book Justice by giving page numbers – like this (40). In your essay, make sure you answer the following questions – though recall that you are to do this in essay form. The goal is not to express opinion but to give compelling arguments, using reasons, arguments, and evidence. Use appropriate writing style and proper grammar. (I suggest reviewing and outlining before beginning the actual writing process.)
Write an essay (note: a genuine essay) that explains how you have engaged in the material on the course – the book, primary texts, Sandel’s videos, questions on the right side of the reading schedule, original essays, and peer responses, etc. In this reflective essay that looks back at the course as a whole, make sure you answer the following questions; recall that you are to do this in essay form. You will be graded primarily for the philosophical content of your answers.
(1) What theories and ideas / assignments / readings did you find most challenging, and why? Explain.
(2) How, if at all, have your commitments or beliefs either changed or developed as a result of the course? Explain. If they have not changed, why do you think that was?
(3) What ideas or topics, if any, would you like to pursue further? If none, do you still agree with Sandel’s claim that the good life involves ethical and political engagement and collective working toward the common good? If you reject it, why? Explain.
(4) What will you take away from the course? What have you learned about ethics and political philosophy (“justice”)?
To prepare to write this, you should review the class material, supplementary Bb files, your notes, and essays and peer discussions. The essay may address and cite from any of Sandel’s chapters, readings, videos, or other material from the course. It must cite Sandel at least once (any chapters) and at least two primary sources (e.g., Kant, Mill, and/or Aristotle). You must say something about AT LEAST FOUR (4) units (of the 13) in the course reading schedule. Follow word limits strictly. Good luck!
Minimal checklist for final essay:
· Answers all four parts of the questions
· Has a clear structure and order to the essay
· Quotes from Sandel’s book at least once — any chapters
· Cites at least two primary sources (e.g., Kant, Mill, Aristotle).
· Says something about and engages at least FOUR (4) units in the course reading schedule.
· Follows word limits strictly
· Uses proper grammar
· Uses proper writing style
· Is clearly written
· Cites properly – like this: “Sandel defends communitarianism (40).”
