Take home test
Philosophy 1510.01—Critical Thinking
Fall 2015
Test 3
Due October 20, 2015 by Class Time:
You may bring to class or email and electronic copy.
Part I
1. A. Argument for Utilitarianism: List a statement that would make this a valid argument.
P1. A moral theory that _________________________________, is a just moral theory.
P2. Utilitarianism is a moral theory that ______________________.
C: Therefore Utilitarianism is a just moral theory.
B. Discuss why the argument is or is not sound in your opinion.
2. A. Objection to Utilitarianism: List a statement that would make this a valid argument.
P1. If Utilitarianism is true, then ___________________________ is just.
P2. ____________________________________ is not just.
C: Therefore, Utilitarianism is not true.
B. Discuss why the argument is or is not sound in your opinion.
3. A. Argument for Libertarianism: List a statement that would make this a valid argument.
P1. A moral theory that _________________________________, is a just moral theory.
P2. Libertarianism is a moral theory that ______________________.
C: Therefore Libertarianism is a just moral theory.
B. Discuss why the argument is or is not sound in your opinion.
4. A. Objection to Libertarianism: List a statement that would make this a valid argument.
P1. If Libertarianism is true, then ___________________________ is just.
P2. ____________________________________ is not just.
C: Therefore, Libertarianism is not true.
B. Discuss why the argument is or is not sound in your opinion.
Part II: Answer 4 out of the 5 questions
5. What is the best argument for/against torture of an alleged terrorist who we think has information about an imminent attack. Does the same argument fit with torturing his daughter—why or why not?
6. What is the best argument for/against taxation for the purpose of redistribution (helping the poor) with tax funded programs). Does the same argument fit paying for public education (those with money can pay for education), why or why not?
7. What is the main Utilitarian argument for letting Market determine just distribution? Do you agree or disagree?
8. What is the main Libertarian argument for letting Market determine just distribution? Do you agree or disagree?
9. Discuss one of the two main objections to free markets? Do you agree or disagree?
