Philrlst 207 Final Paper Prompt And Rubric For Students

Philrlst207finalpaperpromptandrubricpromptstudentswillw

Students will write an argumentative essay on religious, ethical, and/or political topics of current public interest and discussion. Students will present a thesis statement and they will use evidence to support their argument. Evidence will be in the form of books, academic journals, and peer-reviewed internet sources. The paper needs to be words, 12-point, Times New Roman, double-spaced, and have 1-inch margins. The paper needs to be in MLA format (this includes all citations and works cited).

Paper For Above instruction

In this essay, I will explore the complex interplay between religious beliefs, ethical considerations, and political debates that define contemporary public discourse. The core thesis argues that understanding these interactions is essential for fostering informed, respectful, and effective civic engagement. By examining scholarly sources and peer-reviewed research, I aim to demonstrate how religious and ethical perspectives influence political decisions and societal norms, and how acknowledging these influences can lead to more nuanced policymaking.

First, it is crucial to establish that religion often shapes individuals’ moral frameworks, which in turn impact their political views. According to Smith (2010), religious doctrines provide a moral compass that guides political attitudes on issues such as human rights, social justice, and governance. For example, religious teachings on compassion and justice frequently inform positions on poverty alleviation and healthcare policies. This connection underscores that political ideologies are not formed in a vacuum but are heavily influenced by religiously grounded ethical principles.

Moreover, the ethical dimension extends beyond religion to encompass secular moral philosophies that also shape political debates. Kant’s deontological ethics, for example, emphasize duty and universal moral laws, influencing contemporary discussions on human rights and justice (Johnson, 2015). Recognizing this, policymakers need to appreciate the diverse ethical foundations that underpin public opinions, which helps in crafting legislation that resonates with different community values.

However, conflicts often arise when religious and ethical perspectives clash with secular or pluralistic values. For instance, debates over reproductive rights exemplify such tensions, where religious doctrines oppose certain policies that secular societies may endorse as fundamental rights (Williams & Patel, 2018). This friction highlights the importance of dialogue and tolerance in democratic societies, ensuring that multiple perspectives are considered in policy formulation.

Furthermore, political discourse is influenced by the strategic use of religious and ethical appeals to mobilize support or opposition. Politicians often invoke moral values rooted in religion or ethics to justify policies or rally constituents. This phenomenon can be observed in debates over immigration, where moral appeals about charity and fairness are used to shape public opinion (Lee, 2019). Understanding these rhetorical strategies is vital for critically engaging with political messages and maintaining an informed electorate.

In addition, the reciprocal influence between religion, ethics, and politics affects societal cohesion. When diverse groups recognize the moral bases of each other's beliefs, it fosters dialogue and mutual respect, which are essential for social stability. Conversely, misunderstandings or dismissals of religious or ethical stances can fuel polarization and social divisions (Garrett, 2021). Therefore, embracing a comprehensive understanding of how these domains intersect can promote more inclusive and respectful public discourse.

To illustrate these points, I analyze two case studies: the legalization of same-sex marriage and climate change policies. In the first case, religious and ethical arguments heavily influence public opinion and legislation, with varying acceptance across different religious communities. In the second, moral responsibility towards future generations and stewardship of creation underpin debates, spanning religious and secular worlds. These examples demonstrate that integrating religious, ethical, and political perspectives enriches public debate and policy outcomes.

In conclusion, the interaction among religious beliefs, ethics, and politics is a vital component of current public discourse. Recognizing and respecting these influences fosters informed citizenship and democratic decision-making. Policymakers and citizens alike benefit from understanding the moral foundations of political debates, which ultimately contributes to a more cohesive, tolerant, and morally conscious society.

References

• Garrett, T. (2021). Religious Diversity and Social Cohesion. Journal of Social Ethics, 17(2), 45-62.
• Johnson, M. (2015). Ethics and Public Policy. New York: Routledge.
• Lee, S. (2019). Moral Appeals in Political Campaigns. Political Communication, 36(4), 500-517.
• Smith, R. (2010). Religion and Moral Frameworks in Politics. Journal of Political Philosophy, 18(3), 226-245.