Please read the case and answer the questions at the end.
As the case studies are to be written in essay format, do not include the questions or question numbering. Make your responses flow from one question to the next.
In essay format answer the questions posed after the case in the text. These are not “yes or no†answers, nor are they simply statements of opinion. Answers must be substantiated through an analysis of the case and application of course concepts and theories. Often several concepts and theories may be relevant; the task is to analyze the case and to determine which is most adequate and why. All terms, theories, and concepts must be outlined in your answer.
Reserve judgment until the analysis is complete; whether in a paragraph or at the beginning of a case. Instead of starting a section on Moral Responsibility (for example) with “I feel anyone who used product X is morally responsible†(before you’ve even provided any analysis) you should try starting with “In order to determine who has moral responsibility in this situation we need to examine…â€ÂÂ
One of the most important factors for the clear presentation of an argument is to fully outline and define all theories and terms before they are applied to a particular situation or person. For example: You are asked whether or not a particular person/group is morally responsible in a particular situation. Before drawing your conclusion you should present your argument something like this: “In order to determine one’s moral responsibility several factors need to be evaluated. Moral responsibility can be eliminated by the excusing conditions of ignorance and inability (explain these). While a person may be found to be morally responsible, there are four mitigating factors that can reduce one’s degree of responsibility. These four factors are… (define and explain).†Now that you have outlined the theory you will be using you can now apply them more effectively to the specific individuals/groups in question. In outlining these theories you will show that you have an understanding of the course material and are able to apply them to specific situations. It will also make your argument stronger.
In order for your argument to have appropriate symmetry your arguments should be balanced with the outlining and application of any relevant criticisms.
A thorough analysis addresses as many elements of the situation as possible. What is not acceptable is a simple declaration of opinion. Work from the presumption that nothing is self-evident. Be sure to include counter-arguments in your analysis. Everything must be justified/argued for/ substantiated.
Do not do any research for these case studies; do not use secondary sources. These cases are designed to be answered based on the information given.
· The only source you will be using is the text. When citing the text use the following format: “The basic strategy of rule-utilitarianism is to limit utilitarianism analysis to the evaluations of moral rules†(Velasquez, p. 85) or, as this is the only source you will be using you many simply put (85).