Reflective Paper
The Reflective Paper should demonstrate understanding of the reading assignments as well as the implications of new knowledge. The eight-page paper should integrate readings and class discussions into work and life experience. It may include explanation and examples from previous experience as well as implications for future application.
The purpose of the Reflective Paper is for you to culminate the learning achieved in the course by describing your understanding and application of knowledge in the philosophy of human conduct.
Focus of the Reflective Paper
Much of the work we will do on moral questions and moral theory in this course may seem very abstract. This is necessary when you are looking for the broadest understanding possible, but it also allows a certain casualness to work its way into the practice. “The Nazis were bad and it’s good to be good to others” seems true, but all of this should lead us to put our money where our mouths are at some point. Thus, theory and explanation are the first steps we take as moral thinkers, and then we need to put our studies into practice.
For your final paper, write about a real contemporary problem where you see the status quo as lined up against something that is just or in favor of something that is unjust. Make a case for what you think would be just and argue for measures that should be taken to counteract that injustice. The stronger your measures, the greater your need to justify such measures. You must write in a careful, theoretical way. If you can make this assignment about your own experience or community, then all the better – but you must support your arguments. You must use at least 8-10 outside sources in the construction of your argument.
Writing the Reflective Paper
The Reflective Paper:
Must be eight double-spaced pages in length and formatted according to APA style as outlined in your approved style guide.
Must include a cover page that includes:
Name of paper
Student’s name
Course name and number
Instructor’s name
Date submitted
Must include an introductory paragraph with a succinct thesis statement.
Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
Must conclude with a restatement of the thesis and a conclusion paragraph.
Must use APA style as outlined in your approved style guide to document all sources.
Must include, on the final page, a Reference List that is completed according to APA style as outlined in your approved style guide.
