Below are the instructions that were given to me, please follow them closely, the topic for this research paper is (When, if ever, is it morally wrong for governments to conduct surveillance of citizens?)
The Research Essay: Again, students are required to develop a 6 TO 8 PAGE investigative essay
on the basis of possible topics in the field of biomedical ethics found at the end of this section.
The final research paper applies an ethical theory – either utilitarianism or deontology – studied in class to
a concrete issue. Examples of topics that qualify for the paper are listed below. You are not limited to
these topics.
Drawing upon those theories, the student will prepare a written (6 to 8 page typed MLA, APA or CMS-
style pages, double-spaced) paper that addresses these current moral problems. Of particular
importance is the student’s ability to use ethical reasoning to formulate reflective positions on some
of the more pressing moral problems in contemporary society. Papers without this element tend to
score at best a low B or C. The paper is graded for the following sections:
I. Composition (15 points): Composition (15 points): Tell me in ONE sentence what
your paper will discuss. The introduction may be composed of more than one
sentence but your thesis statement can only be one sentence long and has to be
identifiable as such. For example this sentence might read like: “This paper
examines the topic of abortion from both a utilitarian and a deontological viewpoint
and assesses the strengths and weaknesses of both approaches.” The grade in this
section also reflects whether the paper was written well with attention to syntax,
consistent paragraphing indents and proper citation style.
II. History of topic (15 points): set the context for the moral issue from 1960 onward.
Do NOT go back earlier without checking with the instructor first.
III. Pro/Con (20 points): what are the conflicting sides around the issue? Please note:
using websites like procon.org to set up this issue generally reduces the grade in this
section. Look for journal and newspaper articles that summarize the positions. These
are better and more nuanced treatments of the conflicting sides.
IV. Application of ethical theory (30 points): I am looking for One treatment of the
issue from an ethical approach studied during the term. The section is worth thirty
points so this section must be in depth.
Here is a suggested strategy for handling that section in four paragraphs:
Paragraph 1:
- Describe the general approach of the philosophical theory (deontology,
utilitarianism, virtue ethics etc.) - Identify at least three principles from the theory.
Paragraphs 2 through 4:
Assign each of the three principles its own paragraph and explain the principle. Then
use the explained principle to analyze a feature of your topic (in that same paragraph) V. Personal
Conclusion (20 points): In this last section argue for your personal analysis
and thoughts on the issue. Make sure this section receives the treatment and
development it deserves!