In the early modules, we discussed ethical theories. These are ethical relativism, ethical egoism, utilitarianism, Kant’s deontology, and natural law theory/virtue ethics.
In the later modules of the course, we discussed several problems in applied ethics. You may choose from those applied ethics cases or choose one of your own.
Structure of the Essay
1. Introduction to the topic
Give a brief history and background of your topic. Following this, you must state your thesis. Your thesis must make a stand on the ethical problem. For example, ‘euthanasia for terminally ill patients is an ethically right choice to make in many cases.’ The main arguments you present in this essay will defend this position.
2. Body of Essay
a. Select two ethical theories to use in the main body of your essay. The first theory will be the one that supports your thesis. State and explain this theory and apply it to your moral issue.
b. The second theory will give the opposite analysis. If your thesis is that “X is morally right,” then the counterargument will try to show that x is morally wrong. In this way, you will be giving a balanced account of your topic.Moreover, it would be good to provide some of your own arguments for why the counter-view is faulty. You thus support your original thesis in a better and stronger way. Academic sources are good at this point of your essay as well.
c. Compare and contrast how the two ethical theories you have chosen are different. You may label one section of your essay, “Comparing the Theories.” The next section might be labeled, “Contrasting the Theories.”
