Overview
Below are the short essay questions
- Summarize Plato’s Chariot Analogy, with reference to the different parts of the self and corresponding virtues to cultivate. Then, come up with one person (real or fictional) who have a chariot of alignment. Explain the specific issue with their chariot and then propose how they could reach alignment (i.e. interior justice). You may bring in Socrates if you like!
- What is the nature and basis of human dignity according to George and Lee? In your response, reference the essential versus accidental features. Then, discuss two different reasons why sentience (the ability to feel pain) is not considered the criteria for dignity. Do you agree with their argument? Why or why not?
- Consider someone who you consider to be virtuous. State three virtues that are present and apply Aristotle’s idea of the golden mean to those three virtues. Then, give an example of a moral action that the person has done. Apply Aristotle’s three conditions for authentic moral action when explaining it.
- Consider that you are in Germany during the time of the Holocaust. There is a German family who is hiding a Jewish family in their home, and Nazis have shown up at the door to ask if this family is there. Would the German family be obligated to tell the truth according to Kant? Why or why not? In your response, reference the categorical imperative. What would Mill say in response to Kant? Include the principle of utility only. Finally, explain what W. D. Ross would say in response to Mill. Then, the following question below (#5) can be answered for +10 extra credit points.
- Summarize EITHER Aquinas’ argument from contingency, argument from causation, OR
argument from possibility and necessity. Then summarize EITHER Aquinas’ argument from
gradations of perfection OR his argument from design. Next, explain Kierkegaard’s idea of leap of faith with reference to the ethical and religious realms. Then, discuss why subjective knowing is the basis for belief in God according to Kierkegaard. Overall, were you convinced by either philosopher? Why or why not?