Philosophy Questions

You will write anywhere from 2-4 paragraphs for each question you choose. The answers should follow the instructions, here are a few pointers:

In writing your answers, you should keep in mind that you are talking to a fellow student who is not taking our class. So, you will need to give context, explain ideas, and even source/cite material. Like as if you were writing a really good (academic) blog post. You will use all the relevant material from our first unit/module. This means, at times, you will be using multiple sources in your answers. I don't demand actual citations, but referencing lectures, texts (textbook material and lectures), and anything else we have covered will be crucial for a better grade).

You will be uploading to turnitin so please avoid copy/pasta from the internet or from working with your friends (as always, some very minor overlap can happen but you must write your own work!).

Remember to ask yourself all the important checklist type questions:

Did I answer every part of the question?

Did I fully explain any concepts, ideas, thought experiments, arguments, etc... necessary for a layperson to understand your answer to the question?

Did I base my answers on what I learned from class (the lectures, the textbook, our discussions, related coursework, etc...)?

Did I provide reasons for my own claims (backed up my claims with evidence, logic, or sensible assumptions (depends on the context*)?

As a shorthand (rough guide), did I write 2-3 paragraphs (6 to 10 sentences each) or more?

Did I use examples to illustrate points or concepts?

For awesome answers: Did I cite the textbook or primary readings? Did I draw connections between course subject matter and my life/literature/culture/society/etc...? Did I write a minimum of 3-4 long/detailed paragraphs or more?

You will be uploading to turnitin so please avoid copy/pasta from the internet or from working with your friends (as always, some very minor overlap can happen but you must write your own work!).

QUESTIONS:

1. On some moral matters there is longstanding and widespread agreement. For example, all agree that killing innocent children is wrong. In such cases, is it still important that we supply reasons to support our moral judgments? Is it permissible, in some cases, to simply accept a unanimously agreed-upon moral judgment?

2. Is it possible to be moral without believing in God? Why or why not?

3. What difference, if any, is there between something being wrong and something being against the law?

4. Are some acts right or wrong regardless of what anyone happens to believe? If so, what explains that fact? (Subjectivism)