Instructions for Writing: This is your final writing assignment and it is a reflection At this point you have studied multiple theories in a detail (ranging from Bentham & Mill to Kantian and even Contractarian theories). In addition, you have thought about threats to ethics, central concerns related to applying ethics, research on how to make good practical ethical decisions and more.
In reflecting on everything the question you should strive to answer is: what ideas/theories/principles do you believe will have the greatest effect on your ethical reasoning going forward. Now, note, this does not assume that your values have changed in truth studying these theories may have reinforced many of the views you had coming into the class. That said, even if your ideas have solidified rather than changed you should discuss why: what argument, example or theory has strengthened your commitment to certain values and how you will act in the future.
You need only discuss one theory or one key concept, but be honest, if there are more then discuss them all briefly. Keep in mind that the theories you discuss you should strive to explain accurately, as that is a key part of your grade on this assignment.
Writing requirements and grade: think of this as basically a three-paragraph paragraph one should introduce the key idea youll discuss and why its important to you, paragraph two should explain that idea, and paragraph three should highlight what was new to you about that idea and how that will affect your thinking in the future. Whats key is that you explain the ideas accurately and you give clear and precise examples of how your ideas have changed or been reinforced.
Citation requirements: If you use any direct text or any external sources, be certain to quote that text properly. Also, include references/citations for any works which influenced your thinking including the course texts. (There are many sources available to help you with citations, as a quick reference, Purdue universitys Online Writing Lab or O.W.L website can be handy.)
