Assessment

This course is assessed through two means: a written essay, worth 40% of the marks, and a final examination, worth 60%.

The Essay

The essay is due in on Thursday, November 15, 2001.  There is no harm in submitting it earlier.

It should be approximately 2000-2500 words.

Choose one of the following topics:

    a) Gambling

    b) Performance-enhancing drugs

    c) Seat-belts

The essay requires you to consider the pros and cons regarding the topic of your choice and, if possible, to present the arguments that seem to you most persuasive for coming to a particular position.  You may, however, reasonably conclude that things are evenly balanced.

(If you have a particular interest in some other controversial issue, you are invited to approach me and negotiate a specific topic.  But I will not accept essays on other topics that have not been cleared by me explicitly in writing (including e-mail).)

For some advice on writing essays in philosophy, see Ronald Hepburn’s guide (courtesy of the Edinburgh Department).  If you want a longer guide, you could look at Douglas Portmore's Tips on Writing a Philosophy Paper (this link takes you off the local server).

The Exam

The examination will be held on December 12th (second draft timetable, but please check with the notice boards). It will last two hours.