Choose either Option 1 or Option 2 below. Complete all three parts for the topic you choose.
Option 1: AI Ethics
Part 1: Should self-driving cars be programmed to decide what to do by calculating the greatest good or the greatest number even if it means sacrificing the driver? Or should they be programmed to always protect the driver and/or passengers to the extent possible? Or some other alternative? Why?
Part 2: What is the strongest objection someone could give to your view in Part 1?
Part 3: How would you respond to this objection to defend your view? (Do not just repeat the points you made in Part 1; say something new that targets the specific objection from Part 2)
Option 2: Choose your own topic
Write on a topic of your choosing related to Artificial Intelligence. Note: this is not a research paper. You are not just reporting facts or merely stating your opinion; you are developing a philosophical argument. Read “Guidelines on Writing a Philosophy Paper” for help with how to come up with a philosophical thesis.
Part 1: Articulate your own argument regarding some philosophical question related to Artificial Intelligence. Clearly state your thesis and give strong, clear reasons to defend it. You should make it obvious what your topic is and what stance you will be arguing for on the topic.
Part 2: What is the strongest objection someone could give to your view in Part 1?
Part 3: How would you respond to this objection to defend your view? (Do not just repeat the points you made in Part 1; say something new that targets the specific objection from Part 2)
If you choose Option 2, feel free to run your topic by me if you are unsure or have any questions.
An ‘A’ paper will do the following:
Clearly state your thesis.
Don’t make your thesis too broad! Your thesis needs to be narrow enough to be able to give a convincing argument in 2-3 pages. If it’s too broad you will not be able to address all the variables.
Give a clear, well-structured argument to support your thesis. Don’t just list a bunch of unconnected points. Focus on a few key reasons, lay them out clearly, and show how things are connected.
Give strong reasons to support your thesis.
Sample Solution