Facts and Definitions

Question 1

Complete both of the following:

(1) Describe and define the experience of consciousness in your own words–no quotations or references to dictionary definitions. I’m looking for your own phenomenological description. Use at least one of the philosophical terms employed in the Philosophy of Mind video in this description.

(2) Make a five sentence argument for or against consciousness being a criteria for legal personhood. (One conclusion, four sentences supporting that conclusion.) Avoid circular reasoning. Circular reasoning is when the conclusion is foundational to the premises.

For example, if you say: “Consciousness shouldn’t be a criteria for personhood because zombies are people and zombies are not conscious” this is circular reasoning. It’s actually not an argument at all. It’s an assertion. It assumes what it needs to prove: that a zombie has the qualifications for personhood.

Question 2

Many people have goals such as Houdini did. Think about ideas, facts, definitions, details, and other information and examples you want to use. Think about how you will introduce your topic and what the main topic will be for each paragraph. Be sure to identify the sources by title or number when using details or facts directly from the sources.

Write an informational essay about having a goal and the steps needed to realize that goal.

Be sure to use information from BOTH passages. Write your answer on the lines provided.