Analysing whether the George Floyd protesters who broke COVID-19 regulations in 2020 were participating in justified civil disobedience
Analysing whether deepfakes should be protected as free speech
Analysing whether the legalization of cannabis would be supported by J.S. Mill
Analysing whether it matters that the new Starbucks CEO is paid 83% more ($112 million per year) than other fast food chain CEOs
One way to approach this assignment is to regularly read the news looking for something that stands out to you. Another approach is to pick a topic/concept from the course that interests you and go looking for issues/newspaper articles that relate to it. If you are struggling to think of something, visit your TA in office hours and they can help you brainstorm ideas.
Whether the George Floyd protesters who broke COVID-19 regulations in 2020
Full Answer Section
- Contextual factors: The urgency and moral imperative behind the protests, fueled by years of systemic injustice, may have outweighed immediate health concerns for many participants.
- Impact on COVID-19 cases: Studies have shown that the protests likely contributed to a rise in COVID-19 cases in some areas. However, the exact impact is difficult to quantify, as other factors, such as seasonal changes and relaxed restrictions, may have also played a role.
Ultimately, the decision to protest during a pandemic is a complex one, involving a balancing of individual rights, public health concerns, and the urgency of social justice issues. While the protests brought much-needed attention to systemic racism and police brutality, they also highlighted the challenges of navigating public health crises in a democratic society.
Sample Answer
The George Floyd protests in 2020 were a pivotal moment in the fight against systemic racism and police brutality. However, they also occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about public health.
Key points to consider:
- Public health concerns: Mass gatherings, even outdoors, posed risks of virus transmission. Many protesters did not wear masks or practice social distancing, increasing the potential for outbreaks.
- Balancing rights: The right to protest is a fundamental democratic right. However, it must be balanced against the need to protect public health.