Philosophy,The paper will test students’ ability to accurately exposit difficult philosophical texts with clarity and precision and to carefully analyze the arguments made in the texts. Choose one of the following paper topics

/in /by

The paper will test students’ ability to accurately exposit difficult philosophical texts with clarity and precision and to carefully analyze the arguments made in the texts. Choose one of the following paper topics:

Topic A: In Nagel, What Does it All Mean, the chapter “Right and Wrong,” he makes a general argument against harming other people (pages 64-67). On page 64, he begins the argument with the claim “How would you like it if someone did that to you?” Explain in your own words how the argument is supposed to work, following the various moves back and forth. Focus especially on page 66. Nagel uses the example of stealing an umbrella. Provide your own example that helps clarify the argument. What steps in the argument would you challenge? How could it be improved? Do you agree or disagree with the argument and its conclusion?

Topic B: In Descartes Second Meditation, he uses his famous “method of doubt” to move from skepticism to knowledge of his own existence. Just before concluding that he himself exists, Descartes says this (section 3): “But I had the persuasion that there was absolutely nothing in the world, that there was no sky and no earth, neither minds nor bodies.” Then he goes on to say that he exists. Has he contradicted himself? In claiming that he exists has he taken something back from his first claim? Or is there a way to reconcile these two claims? (Hint: the answer lies in his famous “I think, I am”). How certain is Descartes that he is thinking? On what grounds? How certain is he that he exists? On what grounds? (These answers are given throughout the meditation). What do you think about Descartes argument? Do you think it is any good?

*Further guidelines for the papers: 
• All papers must be 4-5 pages, double spaced, 12 point font. 
• This is not a normal research paper: you do not need a long introduction and/or conclusion. Just answer the question being asked. Do not fluff your paper with additional information that is irrelevant to answering the question.
• Please cite all of your sources. MLA with bibliography 
• Late papers will be docked a full letter grade for every day they are late. 
• Extensions (without penalty) will not be granted except in extraordinary circumstances, and you must talk to me prior to the paper’s due date, and your request must be accompanied by the appropriate documentation.