Make sure to review the two Moral Frameworks The Good– which is Utilitarianism (Morality based on Good or Bad Consequences)– and The Right– which is Deontology (Morality based on Duty and Rights).

1000 WORDS

Objective of this assignment: To put theories into conversation with each other, in order to appreciate that:

• Ideas are not isolated or made in a vacuum, but are created by real people grappling with real issues in conversation with others.
• Disagreements aren’t just matters of opinion, but rather can reveal underlying value frameworks. For instance, by analyzing the underlying frameworks of Mill’s Utilitarianism and Kant’s Deontology, we see that Mill and Kant don’t merely disagree with what is moral or not, but they also seem to THINK about morality differently.

This matters because it allows us to see that perspectives that are unfamiliar (or that we disagree with) are often nevertheless rooted in value systems that can be shared or at least understood. Recognizing underlying value systems is one of the first and best ways to move forward when people who disagree deeply are at an impasse.

Other Objectives:

• Learn to express your ideas clearly and concisely in writing.
• Learn the argument essay format.
• Practice critical thinking by evaluating moral theories and constructing your own argument.