Virtue Ethics or Utilitarians

Life is a long exercise in problem solving. One common problem that we face is disagreement. Two people can take the same information and disagree with what the information means and what to do about it. The purpose of this group debate assignment is to practice dealing with disagreement so that when you encounter it “in the wild” things turn out better for you.

Your group’s debate will consist of the following sections:

1) Problem description (2-3 mins):

Explain the main source of the problem and the general views that people take;

2) Pro and Con Position (4-6 mins):

a) Construct an argument on either side of the debate.

b) Be sure to include a reference to one of our ethical theories to defend your position;

3) Dialectic Reasoning (4-6 mins):

a) Ask the opposing side to address your position.

b) Pose questions to the other side regarding how they came to their conclusion.

c) Pose questions to the larger class.

There is no need to present anything via Powerpoint or the like. If that helps you think, you are welcome to use it. The chief purpose of the assignment–to get you to think through a problem–can be done without any visual aids (I think).

Please note two further items:

You are graded both as a group and individually;

Every member of the group must participate during sections (2) and (3) of the debate. Ideally everyone will also participate in section (1), but I leave that to the discretion of each group member.

Lastly, there is no rubric for the grading of this assignment. If your group completes sections (1) – (3) clearly and reasonably, you should do well. I take it that most of you are well acquainted with group debates, so I believe that the above covers everything that you need to know. If, however, you require any further guidance or assistance, please do not hesitate to let me know.