1) Choose a article, or perhaps two, from Part II: Issues in applied ethics section of the book, that you are interested in. If the article does not provide an adequate discussion of your topic, or if you want to include supporting information, you may consult outside sources. This is not required, but it is not discouraged. However, the primary focus must be a response to an article from Part II of the course reader.
2) You can use a variety of strategies in your paper. You may agree or disagree with the author. In this case you will need to support your claim that the author is wrong or that the author is right. Consider which of the author’s claims lead to the problem. You may also agree with the author’s position and want to demonstrate that the author is correct. A paper that compares two positions that are in disagreement is also a good strategy. In this kind of paper you will normally take a side in the argument and show why one author’s position is stronger than the other. These are not the only possible strategies, but this should give you a good idea. You may also want to take your own position on an issue, though this is a bit more difficult.
3) Before you begin writing your paper, you should write down your thesis on a piece of paper. If you cannot do this in one or two sentences, then you need to rethink what you are trying to say. A thesis should be a clear statement of the position you are taking. It should answer the question, “What is this paper about?” Do not begin writing your paper until you have a concise thesis statement.
4) Write down the primary evidence that you will present in support of your thesis. Consider whether this evidence supports your thesis. In some cases you will need secondary evidence to support your primary evidence. For example, you may take a position and make a claim that supports your thesis. This claim may also need to be supported.
5) Organize the presentation of your paper. Do not underestimate the value of outlines.
6) Remember, this is an argumentative essay, not a book report. You should not simply be summarizing the positions and then stating your agreement. One useful way to avoid mere summary is to choose a author with whom you disagree. This way you could offer a critical analysis. If they are wrong, then why are they wrong?
