Third Major Paper Assignment: Taking A Position On An Enviro

Third Major Paper Assignment: Taking a Position on an Environmental Is

After exploring multiple positions on an environmental issue pertaining to a site (e.g., the Galveston beaches) or a region (e.g., the Gulf Coast), take an ethical position on the issue. That is, take a position that considers the implications of an action within a broader social context. The position that you take should not be the only position possible, but it should be a position that you can defend as ethically sounder than its alternatives. Support your position with a relevant image, chart, or graph that you create or cite correctly, as well as with four or more print sources. At least three of your four print sources must come from research that you have done using M.D. Anderson’s databases and/or catalog (secondary research). Up to one print source may come from Chapter 19, “The Environment: How Do We Sustain It?” in Read, Reason, Write. Most directly, this paper assignment builds on what you learned in Chapter 9, “The Position Paper: Claims of Values,” and Chapter 13, “Writing the Researched Essay,” in Read, Reason, Write. You may need to review these chapters as you research and decide on a topic. Also, and as needed, use the written and verbal feedback that you receive during your scheduled peer reviews (the peer review of your initial idea as well as the peer review of your full rough draft).

Paper For Above instruction

The objective of this assignment is to craft an ethically grounded argumentative paper on an environmental issue relevant to a specific site or region, such as the Gulf Coast or Galveston beaches. Your task involves selecting a contentious environmental issue, examining various perspectives, and then taking a well-supported, ethical stance on the matter. This requires critical analysis, research, and an understanding of the social and ecological implications of potential actions. The paper should demonstrate your ability to develop a nuanced argument, integrate credible sources, and consider counterarguments thoughtfully.

Begin with an engaging introduction that clearly states the significance of the issue—perhaps highlighting its urgency or the ongoing debate surrounding it. Your thesis statement must articulate a specific, defendable position rooted in ethical considerations, values, or societal implications. Ensure your claim guides the entire essay, providing a foundation for your arguments.

In the body of the paper, develop your support by presenting factual evidence, statistical data, and authoritative opinions that bolster your position. Explore opposing viewpoints by summarizing their main arguments and evidence, then refuting them with well-reasoned counterarguments. This demonstrates your command of the topic and enhances your credibility.

Throughout your analysis, maintain an active voice, rely on credible sources, and focus on logical coherence. Use quotations and citations appropriately, adhering to MLA formatting standards—Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced, with a heading and header. Be nuanced in your arguments, considering societal values, ethical principles, and practical considerations.

Conclude by summarizing your main points and reaffirming your ethical stance. Reflect on the broader implications of your argument, linking back to your introduction and emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue responsibly.

Your outline is due by Tuesday, 11/27 at 11:59 pm and should follow these guidelines closely. This assignment aims to build on your previous learning in Chapters 9 and 13 of Read, Reason, Write, reinforcing your ability to develop a compelling, research-supported position paper rooted in ethical analysis.

References

• Johnson, E. (2020). Environmental Ethics and Public Policy. Cambridge University Press.
• Smith, R. (2019). The Social Dimensions of Environmental Issues. Oxford University Press.
• United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2021). Protecting Our Environment: Strategies and Challenges. https://www.epa.gov
• Williams, L. (2018). Conservation and Ethics: Balancing Human Needs and Ecological Preservation. Routledge.
• Read, E., & Reason, G. (2022). Read, Reason, Write: Chapters 9 & 13. (Textbook)
• Additional scholarly articles from M.D. Anderson’s databases accessed for research purposes.
• Chapter 19, “The Environment: How Do We Sustain It?” in Read, Reason, Write.
• Brody, S. (2017). Ethical Environmental Decision-Making. Journal of Environmental Ethics, 35(2), 123-135.
• Carson, R. (1962). Silent Spring. Houghton Mifflin.
• Qiu, Z., & Li, F. (2020). Ethical Perspectives on Coastal Management. Marine Policy, 112, 103680.