Final Paper Topic
Read “The Speluncean Explorers and the Death of Roger Whetmore” in Making Mortal Choices. The question you are to consider is whether the cannibalizing of Roger Whetmore was immoral or not. If so, on what grounds? If not, what moral principles allowed for such action?
Pick a position, clearly state it and then argue why others should adopt it. In advancing your view, make certain that you take into account possible objections. Clearly and fairly advance any major objections that could be made and then clearly and fairly explain why your position is still superior. (It may be helpful to use Bedau’s arguments here to motivate some objections. However, if you do use Bedau, be sure to cite him).
This paper assignment will take place in two parts. I would like you to submit an outline of your argument before you prepare your final paper. The template for the outline can be found here. If you wish, you can simply write neatly on the template itself. I will grade your outline and offer criticism, comments and suggestions. You should then write your final paper in light of the comments you receive.
The outline is not meant to be long at all – aim for no more than one page. The point of having a short outline is to force you to organize your thoughts and present them concisely. If you can write your thesis, your main points, major objections and responses in a few sentences, you will know that you have really grasped the issues. On the other hand, if you have only a vague sense of what is going on, it will become clear when writing the outline.
To this end, the bulk of the grading points will be awarded on the basis of clarity and exactness. Vague or rambling outlines are to be avoided, as are vacuous and trite points.
The final paper will closely resemble the format of the two shorter papers. The major difference is length – this paper should be 4 to 5 pages long. As before, please type your work using a 12 point font Times New Roman font, double space your lines and leave the standard 1” margins.