Introduction to Philosophy Fall, 2015 Paper 1 Assignment: With reference to what we read of Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, argue that virtue—and not pleasure—is the true good for which we should all strive. Your paper should include the following sections: 1. A brief introduction explaining why the topic is important. For example: “We all want to live a good life, but how to do that is not always clear. According to Aristotle, we should follow reason and be virtuous, even if that is painful; but there are those who say we are better off doing what gives us pleasure, instead of being virtuous.” 2. A clear and concise statement of your position. This is your paper’s thesis. For example: “In this paper, I am going to argue that virtue, not pleasure, is the true good for humans.” 3. A main argument showing the logic and evidence that supports your view. In this case, Aristotle provides both in his account of virtue. 4. An objection to your paper’s thesis. This is how a skeptical philosopher might try to challenge your position. For example, such a philosopher might argue that following reason does not provide the intense pleasures and pains that are the true spice of life. You only live once. 5. A response to the objection. This is your chance to defend your position by explaining why the skeptic is wrong. 6. A conclusion that reveals an important implication of your position. An implication means the impact of your position in our daily lives. For example, we will have to live differently if we embrace virtue as our true good than if we decide that we should be living for pleasure. Please write 1,000-1,500 words in sentences that are both complete and grammatically correct. Writing a Philosophy Paper Uninformed Reader •Write as if the reader knows nothing about the topic. •That means you need to explain key concepts, such as virtue. Loading… Persuade the Reader •Write to persuade the reader that your thesis is true. •Persuasion means referring to the reasons and evidence that support your thesis. Structure 1. Introduction 2. Thesis 3. Main Argument 4. Objection 5. Response 6. Conclusion Loading… Introduction •Explains why the topic is important and introduces at least two ways of thinking about the topic. Thesis •States the position that you want to argue for in your paper. Main Argument •Provides the reasons and evidence that support your thesis. Objection •Allows you to challenge your argument by considering what a skeptic might say against your thesis. Response •Your chance to explain why the skeptic is wrong and your position is the better one. Conclusion •Spells out the implications of your thesis. •What changes (if any) should we make in our lives if your thesis is true? Loading… Citing Sources In the text: Aristotle wrote: “When pleasure is on her trial we are not impartial judges” (Nicomachean Ethics, p. 113).
