Assignment 4, Draft due Monday, Feb. 13; Final copy Friday, Feb. 17

Let’s make this one worth 15 points. Please write three paragraphs, as follows:

1. First paragraph: Simply state in one clear sentence whether you judge Walzer or Luban to hold the more defensible (stronger) position. (Save discussion and argumentation for later.)

2. Second paragraph: Present in one clear sentence, and then develop, the strongest argument of the author opposed to the one whose position you find more defensible. In other words, if you hold Walzer's position to be stronger and more worthy of acceptance, then you would here present Luban's strongest argument. If you hold Luban's position to be more defensible, then you would here present Walzer's strongest argument. The purpose of this paragraph is to show that you understand how a thoughtful person (such as Walzer or Luban) would argue for the position opposed to the one you find more worthy of acceptance.

3. Third paragraph: Explain why, in spite of the strength of the opposing argument you developed in the second paragraph, you nonetheless regard the argument as not sufficient to rationally persuade you to the opposing position. Here you might here be showing that the argument is not sound or be arguing that some other specific moral consideration outweighs whatever strength the argument might have. Be specific.

Please follow these guidelines:

1. Use the readings and class discussion. You may or may not quote directly, but you should refer to page numbers from the readings as appropriate (not just for direct quotations). Author and page number in parenthesis is sufficient: e.g., “(Luban, p. 239).” Quote directly (if at all) sparingly.

2. Base your discussion on the readings, but use your own words to show you understand the points you are making.

3. Stay on one exact point per paragraph. Don't mix in different arguments. If you have an intense desire to discuss more than the assignment asks, do so by writing additional paragraphs after completing the assignment. (E.g., in a fourth paragraph, if you were supporting Luban, “A second strong argument that Walzer presents...” or “A second reason for my rejection of Walzer's argument [in the second paragraph] is that...” or, best of all, “Walzer might respond to me by arguing…” and then you would need to “have the last word” by responding again. In this last case you are carrying on a dialogue and taking it beyond just one response. In all cases show your ability to start a paragraph with one clear sentence stating your point and then developing that exact point only. This is what you will need to do in your major essays.

4. Use double or 1.5 line-spacing. Proofread carefully. If you wish to email your draft or final copy, be sure both your name and email address are on the attachment.

5. Length should be 1½-2 pages. No excess verbiage.