Make an argument for or against allowing state-sanctioned homosexual marriage (if it was allowed, it would mean that civil ceremonies would be legal across the U.S., with the same benefits that current heterosexual married couples have).

You should first make the argument, which entails the following—make it clear what your claim/conclusion is (either for or against), and then provide reasons (at least two, no more than three) to back up that claim. Explain each reason in detail. Then consider a good objection to your argument from the opposite side, and answer that objection. Again, be sure to explain both the objection and your answer in detail.  Note that the topic concerns civil ceremonies, not religious ones, and so arguments based on religion would be off-topic.  Keep in mind that this is not a research paper; you do not need any sources outside of texts used in this class. If you do use any ideas from class texts, provide references.

The paper is due November 21st at the beginning of class. It should be 4-6 pages in length, typed, double-spaced, in 12 pt. Times New Roman font, with reasonable margins. Late papers will be excused only for documented medical emergencies. Nonetheless, late papers should be handed in as soon as possible, because they lose a third of a grade a day. It is your responsibility to contact me regarding a late paper and to make sure that I get it. Don’t cheat—you should make sure you are familiar with what counts as plagiarism. The minimum penalty for plagiarism is a failing grade for the assignment; I turn all cases over to the university and they may recommend further consequences.

I will grant extensions if you have a good reason and you tell me more than two days before the paper is due. If you need any help, or just want to run ideas by me, feel free to come by during my office hours (or make an appointment) or email me. You can find some writing tips on the class website. I will look at drafts of papers, but not any later than two days before the paper is due. I prefer to meet with students in person to discuss drafts. Rewrites are not allowed.