Category: Philosophy

Read the questions carefully and respond to all parts of it. Aim to answer the questions in 3-4 sentences at minimum but you may write more than that if you choose to. Your answers will be graded based on how well you understood the text, how well you articulated yourself, and good spelling, grammar, and style.
1. Do you think the metaphysics of race is a truly productive philosophical endeavor or is the topic of race an investigation that should be left to the social sciences? I am asking you to make an argument here so provide your answer and then state your reasons.
2. Mills presents some different metaphysical positions one can have on race. Which one do you find the most convincing? Carefully state your reasons.
3. Mills has presented 7 criteria for determining someone’s race which ones/one do you believe to be the most important. Carefully state your reasons.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understanding the Assignment

This assignment requires you to critically engage with the metaphysics of race, evaluate different philosophical positions, and justify your choices with well-reasoned arguments. Read the questions carefully and ensure that your responses are detailed and articulate.

Step 2: Structuring Your Paper

Your paper should follow a clear and logical structure to present your argument effectively.

Introduction (1 paragraph)

• Briefly introduce the topic of race and metaphysics.
• Clearly state your thesis (your position on whether the metaphysics of race is a productive philosophical endeavor or should be left to the social sciences).
• Outline the main points you will discuss in your paper.

Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by explanations and examples.

Question 1: Is the Metaphysics of Race a Productive Philosophical Endeavor?

• State Your Argument Clearly: Do you believe that race should be examined philosophically, or is it best left to social sciences?
• Support Your Position:
  • If you believe it is productive, discuss how philosophy can analyze concepts like race, identity, and social constructs in ways that social sciences may not.
  • If you argue that it should be left to social sciences, explain how disciplines like sociology and anthropology provide better empirical and practical insights into race-related issues.
• Provide Examples: Reference philosophical debates, real-world implications, or historical perspectives to strengthen your argument.

Question 2: Which Metaphysical Position on Race is Most Convincing?

• Summarize the Different Positions: Mills presents various metaphysical perspectives on race (e.g., racial realism, constructivism, eliminativism). Briefly describe them.
• State Your Choice: Which position do you find the most compelling?
• Justify Your Answer:
  • Explain why this position best accounts for the complexities of race.
  • Use philosophical arguments and real-world examples to support your reasoning.

Question 3: The Most Important Criterion for Determining Race

• Summarize Mills’ Seven Criteria: Briefly explain the different ways one might determine race.
• Select the Most Important One: Which criterion do you find the most crucial and why?
• Justify Your Answer:
  • Does this criterion best align with social realities and historical contexts?
  • How does it compare to the other criteria Mills presents?
• Provide Examples: Use real-world scenarios or philosophical arguments to reinforce your choice.

Conclusion (1 paragraph)

• Restate Your Thesis: Summarize your main argument and conclusions.
• Reflect on the Broader Implications: Why is this discussion significant? How does it impact our understanding of race in society today?
• Leave the Reader with a Thought-Provoking Statement: Consider posing a final question or highlighting an area for further exploration.

Final Tips for Success

• Clarity & Precision: Write clearly and concisely, making sure your arguments are easy to follow.
• Grammar & Style: Proofread for spelling, grammar, and stylistic consistency.
• Engage with the Text: Demonstrate a strong understanding of Mills’ arguments and engage with them critically.
• Use Evidence: Support your claims with well-reasoned arguments and examples.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to construct a well-organized and persuasive paper that fully addresses the assignment questions. Good luck!

make a brief discussion of at least 800 words
answers this questions below
What Is a Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA)?
How a ROSCA Works
Advantages and Disadvantages of a ROSCA
Example of a ROSCA
How Does a ROSCA Work?
Are ROSCAs Available in the U.S.?
What Happens if a ROSCA Member Doesn’t Live Up to Their Obligation to Pay In?
you can use this link Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA): Definition (investopedia.com)

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

A. Analyze one of the given case studies from the attached “Case
Studies” document by doing the following:
1. Using the Iceberg Tool, write a summary of the analysis identifying key events, patterns, and the underlying structure that causes the identified events and patterns to occur.
2. Choose the Behavior Over Time graph that best represents the patterns you identified using the attached “Case Study 1 Graphs” or “Case Study 2 Graphs” for the case study you chose.
a. Discuss why the chosen Behavior Over Time graph best represents the patterns present in the chosen case study.
3. Write an analysis that discusses what the Iceberg Tool and Behavior Over Time graph reveal about the problem in the case study as well as the interconnections between the key events, patterns, and underlying structure of the system.
B. Acknowledge sources, using in-text citations and references, for content that is quoted, paraphrased, or summarized.
C. Demonstrate professional communication in the content and presentation of your submission.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

This assignment requires analyzing a case study using two system-thinking tools: the Iceberg Tool and the Behavior Over Time graph. Your goal is to reveal the systemic problem, its structure, and interconnections between events, patterns, and underlying causes.

Step 2: Read and Understand the Case Study

• Action: Read the chosen case study thoroughly from the attached “Case Studies” document. Take note of:
  • Key events (observable occurrences in the case study).
  • Patterns (repeated behaviors or trends over time).
  • Underlying structure (root causes and systemic factors behind the patterns).

Step 3: Apply the Iceberg Tool

1. Overview of the Iceberg Tool:
   • Events: What is happening on the surface?
   • Patterns: What trends or behaviors repeat over time?
   • Structures: What systemic structures or mental models influence the patterns and events?
2. Action: Summarize your analysis of the case study using these layers.
   • Write a clear summary identifying the events, patterns, and structures.
   • Example:
     • Events: High employee turnover in a healthcare organization.
     • Patterns: Turnover peaks during times of high workload or staff shortages.
     • Structure: A culture of poor communication and inadequate support for staff.

Step 4: Select the Best Behavior Over Time Graph

1. Review the Attached Graphs:
   • Open “Case Study 1 Graphs” or “Case Study 2 Graphs” depending on your chosen case study.
   • Analyze which graph best visualizes the patterns you’ve identified (e.g., steady increases, sharp declines, or cyclical trends).
2. Action: Choose one graph and explain your choice in a few sentences.
   • Example:
     • “The steady decline in employee satisfaction over time is best represented by Graph B. This graph captures the trend of dissatisfaction worsening as workload increases without resolution.”

Step 5: Write the Analysis

1. Connect the Tools: Use insights from the Iceberg Tool and the Behavior Over Time graph to discuss:
   • What the tools reveal about the systemic problem in the case study.
   • The interconnections between events, patterns, and structures in the system.
2. Action: Write an organized analysis using the following structure:
   • Introduction: Briefly introduce the case study and the tools used for analysis.
   • Iceberg Tool Analysis: Summarize the findings (events, patterns, structure).
   • Behavior Over Time Graph Analysis: Explain why the chosen graph best represents the identified patterns.
   • Revealing Systemic Issues: Discuss how the Iceberg Tool and graph reveal the systemic root causes and their interconnections.

Step 6: Cite Your Sources

1. Action: Acknowledge all sources used in your analysis, whether quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing content.
   • Follow the required citation format (e.g., APA, MLA).
   • Example:
     • In-text: (Author, Year)
     • Reference List: Author. (Year). Title of the document. Publisher.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Action: Ensure your submission demonstrates professional communication:
   • Use formal language.
   • Check for grammar, spelling, and clarity.
   • Format your document neatly with headings and subheadings.
2. Action: Review the assignment instructions to ensure all components are completed before submitting.

By following this guide, you’ll break the assignment into manageable steps and produce a thorough, structured analysis. Good luck!

Using the ethical theory of utilitarianism we’re studying this Unit, evaluate the things you’ve spent money on recently.
First, list some things you’ve spent money on in the past six months or so. Don’t just include the major, important stuff. List any fun or frivolous stuff you bought, if you did.
Next, consider your purchases from the perspective of utilitarianism. Did each of these purchases maximize overall net happiness? (Remember that utilitarianism is not a selfish theory, so the goal is not for you to maximize your own happiness. The goal is to maximize overall happiness, taking everyone’s happiness into account.) If some of your purchases did not max happiness, what could you have done differently with your money to maximize overall well-being?
Finally, consider what this activity tells you about your opinion of utilitarianism. Some critics say that utilitarianism is too demanding as an ethical theory. Do you agree with this criticism? Why or why not? Be sure to defend your opinion of this ethical theory.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the Assignment Requirements

In this assignment, you need to evaluate your recent purchases from the perspective of utilitarianism, an ethical theory that emphasizes maximizing overall happiness. First, you’ll list what you’ve spent money on in the past six months, then analyze whether each purchase maximized overall happiness. Finally, you’ll reflect on what this tells you about your views on utilitarianism and whether you think it’s too demanding as an ethical theory.

Step 2: List Your Recent Purchases

Start by listing everything you’ve spent money on over the past six months. This includes:

• Major purchases (e.g., rent, bills, groceries, transportation)
• Fun or frivolous purchases (e.g., entertainment, dining out, clothing, gadgets)
• Small, everyday items (e.g., coffee, snacks, subscription services)

Step 3: Analyze Each Purchase Using Utilitarianism

Now, evaluate each of your purchases through the lens of utilitarianism. For each purchase, ask yourself:

• Does this purchase maximize overall happiness?
  • Did this item benefit only you, or did it benefit others as well?
  • Was it something that added joy or utility to others, or was it just for personal enjoyment?
  • Did it have a positive or negative environmental or social impact?
• Was there a better way to use this money to increase overall happiness?
  • Could you have spent this money on something that benefits a larger group of people or has long-term positive effects?

For example:

• If you spent money on a subscription service, think about whether it improved your life in a way that also benefits your community (e.g., by providing educational content) or if it’s something that only adds to your personal entertainment without contributing to the well-being of others.
• If you dined out at a restaurant, consider whether the money went to a local business and helped employees, or whether you could have donated that same amount to a charity that would have helped others more.

Step 4: Reflect on Your View of Utilitarianism

After analyzing your purchases, think about what this activity tells you about your opinion of utilitarianism. Reflect on the following questions:

• Do you think it’s reasonable to consider the happiness of everyone when making purchases?
  • Is it practical to always maximize overall happiness with every decision you make, or are there some situations where focusing on personal happiness is justified?
  • Are there limits to how much you can think about others’ happiness in daily life? For example, how much responsibility do you have to address the happiness of people far away (e.g., in different countries)?
• Do you agree with the criticism that utilitarianism is too demanding?
  • Some critics argue that utilitarianism requires constant selflessness and can be difficult to apply in everyday life because it asks us to consider the well-being of everyone. Do you agree with this, or do you think utilitarianism offers a useful framework for making ethical decisions?

Step 5: Organize Your Post

Now, structure your response clearly. Here’s a suggested outline:

1. Introduction:
   • Briefly introduce utilitarianism and its focus on maximizing overall happiness.
   • State the purpose of the assignment: evaluating recent purchases through the lens of utilitarianism.
2. List of Purchases:
   • Provide a brief list of the things you’ve spent money on recently, including both important and fun purchases.
3. Utilitarian Evaluation:
   • For each purchase, evaluate it from the perspective of utilitarianism. Was the happiness generated from this purchase shared or exclusive? Could you have used the money differently to maximize happiness?
4. Reflection on Utilitarianism:
   • Reflect on your views about utilitarianism based on your evaluation.
   • Discuss whether you agree with the criticism that utilitarianism is too demanding, and provide reasons for your opinion.
5. Conclusion:
   • Summarize your main points and reflect on how utilitarianism could influence your future decision-making.

Step 6: Review and Revise Your Post

Once you’ve written your post, review it for clarity and coherence. Ensure your argument is logical and supported by examples. Check for any spelling or grammar mistakes, and make sure your ideas flow smoothly.

Step 7: Finalize Your Post

Once you’re satisfied with your revisions, format your post according to any guidelines provided (e.g., word count, citation style). After a final proofread, submit your discussion.

Abstract:
The tension between individual freedom and collective responsibility has long been a central theme in political philosophy. This article revisits this paradox in light of contemporary societal challenges such as climate change and global health crises. Drawing on the works of Hannah Arendt and Jean-Paul Sartre, it explores how autonomy can be redefined to incorporate mutual interdependence without eroding personal liberty. The paper concludes by proposing a framework for “relational freedom” that balances self-determination with ethical responsibility toward others.

Abstract:
As artificial intelligence systems increasingly become a part of daily life, ethical frameworks struggle to keep pace with technological advancements. This article explores post-humanist ethics as a lens for AI morality, focusing on the decentralization of human primacy in ethical decision-making. Drawing from thinkers such as Donna Haraway and Bruno Latour, it argues for a reimagined relationship between humans, AI, and the broader ecological network, proposing a model where ethical agency is distributed rather than centralized.

please see the instructions and rubric attached. APA Format, use in-text citation with page numbers and video time stamps included.

you will choose one of the TED Talks below and form a response based on the provided guidance using the provided template Download the provided template. As you respond to the questions, you will be expected to connect the concepts covered in this course to the information in your chosen video Please ensure that you use the template and follow APA format for your paper, including a title page, and a reference page.
TED. (2022, April). You Don’t Actually Know What Your Future Self Wants / Shankar Vedantam [Video]. https://www.ted.com/talks/shankar_vedantam_you_don_t_actually_know_what_your_future_self_wants
For each number below, complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter of the class.
The Argument and Syllogism: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Summarize the overall argument of the video in your own words. Be sure to include details and the main points the speaker used to make the argument.
Identify the three parts of the syllogism the speaker uses to make the overall argument:
Major Premise
Minor Premise
Conclusion
Testing the Syllogism: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Based upon the syllogism (your answer to Part 1. B), does this argument demonstrate inductive or deductive reasoning? Provide support for your choice. Be sure to only choose deductive OR inductive; you cannot choose both or neither.
If the argument is deductive, test your syllogism (your answers to Part 1. B) in terms of logical validity and soundness. Be sure to not only tell if the syllogism is valid and sound but also show how/how not or why/why not. If the argument is inductive, test your syllogism (your answers from Part 1. B) in terms of being a stronger or weaker inductive argument. Be sure to not only tell if the syllogism is stronger or weaker but also show how or why.
Rhetorical Appeals: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Identify examples of all three rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, and logos) that you noticed in this video and what information from the video has led you to your choices. Be sure to select specific words, phrases, or ideas and explain their connections to each type of appeal. Also, indicate what effect the use of these appeals has on the persuasiveness of the argument.
Rhetorical Devices and Logical Fallacies: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Identify at least one specific rhetorical device and one specific logical fallacy in the way this topic is presented. Be sure to define the rhetorical device and fallacy and demonstrate how or why the source employs them. Also, discuss whether you think the use of each device and fallacy was deliberate or not and assess the effect that each one has on the argument.
NOTE: Remember, ethos, pathos, and logos are rhetorical appeals, NOT devices, so they are not what is being asked here. This is asking about rhetorical devices.
Moral Reasoning: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
A. Which specific kind of moral reasoning is demonstrated in your topic? Briefly elaborate on why you chose the one you did. Be sure to define the specific kind of moral reasoning you chose and demonstrate how or why the source employs them. Also, discuss whether the use of this kind of moral reasoning was deliberate and what effect it has on the persuasiveness of the argument.
Reaction and Reflection: Offer your position on the argument presented in the video you selected. Using your critical thinking skills, explain whether the speaker’s argument was effective or ineffective, and why.
Conclusion: What are the positive implications and negative consequences for the critical reasoning concepts that were used throughout your paper and in the video?
When completing this assignment, please keep the following in mind:
Use the provided template.
First and third person (I, we, her, him, they) are fine for this assignment, but do not use second person (you, your).
Include a title page, indicating which topic you chose.
Adhere to basic APA formatting, including:
12-point Times New Roman font
Double-spaced text
1-inch margins throughout
Support your logic with in-text citations from our textbook.
Cite any outside sources that you used to support your ideas in proper APA format with in-text citations and references.
Be sure to review the associated rubric for more guidance on the content that your response is expected to contain.

you will choose one of the TED Talks below and form a response based on the provided guidance using the provided template Download the provided template. As you respond to the questions, you will be expected to connect the concepts covered in this course to the information in your chosen video Please ensure that you use the template and follow APA format for your paper, including a title page, and a reference page.
TED. (2022, April). You Don’t Actually Know What Your Future Self Wants / Shankar Vedantam [Video]. https://www.ted.com/talks/shankar_vedantam_you_don_t_actually_know_what_your_future_self_wants
For each number below, complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter of the class.
The Argument and Syllogism: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Summarize the overall argument of the video in your own words. Be sure to include details and the main points the speaker used to make the argument.
Identify the three parts of the syllogism the speaker uses to make the overall argument:
Major Premise
Minor Premise
Conclusion
Testing the Syllogism: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Based upon the syllogism (your answer to Part 1. B), does this argument demonstrate inductive or deductive reasoning? Provide support for your choice. Be sure to only choose deductive OR inductive; you cannot choose both or neither.
If the argument is deductive, test your syllogism (your answers to Part 1. B) in terms of logical validity and soundness. Be sure to not only tell if the syllogism is valid and sound but also show how/how not or why/why not. If the argument is inductive, test your syllogism (your answers from Part 1. B) in terms of being a stronger or weaker inductive argument. Be sure to not only tell if the syllogism is stronger or weaker but also show how or why.
Rhetorical Appeals: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Identify examples of all three rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, and logos) that you noticed in this video and what information from the video has led you to your choices. Be sure to select specific words, phrases, or ideas and explain their connections to each type of appeal. Also, indicate what effect the use of these appeals has on the persuasiveness of the argument.
Rhetorical Devices and Logical Fallacies: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
Identify at least one specific rhetorical device and one specific logical fallacy in the way this topic is presented. Be sure to define the rhetorical device and fallacy and demonstrate how or why the source employs them. Also, discuss whether you think the use of each device and fallacy was deliberate or not and assess the effect that each one has on the argument.
NOTE: Remember, ethos, pathos, and logos are rhetorical appeals, NOT devices, so they are not what is being asked here. This is asking about rhetorical devices.
Moral Reasoning: Complete a thoughtful and thorough paragraph long enough to demonstrate your understanding of the course concepts indicated.
A. Which specific kind of moral reasoning is demonstrated in your topic? Briefly elaborate on why you chose the one you did. Be sure to define the specific kind of moral reasoning you chose and demonstrate how or why the source employs them. Also, discuss whether the use of this kind of moral reasoning was deliberate and what effect it has on the persuasiveness of the argument.
Reaction and Reflection: Offer your position on the argument presented in the video you selected. Using your critical thinking skills, explain whether the speaker’s argument was effective or ineffective, and why.
Conclusion: What are the positive implications and negative consequences for the critical reasoning concepts that were used throughout your paper and in the video?
When completing this assignment, please keep the following in mind:
Use the provided template.
First and third person (I, we, her, him, they) are fine for this assignment, but do not use second person (you, your).
Include a title page, indicating which topic you chose.
Adhere to basic APA formatting, including:
12-point Times New Roman font
Double-spaced text
1-inch margins throughout
Support your logic with in-text citations from our textbook.
Cite any outside sources that you used to support your ideas in proper APA format with in-text citations and references.
Be sure to review the associated rubric for more guidance on the content that your response is expected to contain.

please see the instructions and rubric attached. APA Format, use in-text citation with page numbers and video time stamps included.