You can write on any argument or view that is on the syllabus. It would ideally be an argument or view that you understand well and have something interesting or original to contribute. Your final paper can be an extension of a short paper that you turned in earlier this semester. Once you have selected the argument you would like to write about, your paper should accomplish one of the two following goals:
1. Defend the argument from a threatening objection. (If you find the argument compelling). Your paper should include:
a. A clear and accurate explanation of the target argument.
b. A clear and accurate statement of what you will argue and conclude.
c. A clear explanation of what you take to be the best objection to the argument.
d. A clear argument for why you do not find this objection problematic for the view.
2. Raise an objection to the argument. (If you do not find the argument compelling)
Your paper should include:
a. A clear and accurate explanation of the target argument.
b. A clear and accurate statement of what you will argue and conclude.
c. A clear argument for what you take to be the best objection to the argument.
d. How you anticipate that the author might respond to your objection and why this response is not problematic.