Final paper: a proposed plan of action related to a technological issue

The content

In your final paper you need to propose, discuss and defend a plan of action related to a technological issue. The issue is your choice, it could be anything from global warming to growing genetically modified plants in a particular area. However, it may not be the same issue that you have discussed in your second paper. In your paper you need to:

• Give a brief history of the issue. Include only the facts that are related to your proposed plan. Explain why there is a need to act on this issue.
• Present your plan of action. The plan may include laws, regulations, education, boycott of products, etc. The plan must be concrete and realistic (it doesn't make sense to propose that everyone starts (or stops) using hybrid cars, but you may suggest incentives for people to buy (or not to buy) such cars).
• Discuss opposing points of view. Argue with the other points of view. Don't dismiss the other side's arguments as nonsense, analyze what values/believes they may be based upon and give a strong argument in favor of your point of view.
• Discuss alternatives to your plan. Explain why your plan is better!
• Discuss possible shortcomings of your plan. If you can think of ways to minimize the negative effects, discuss those.
• Finally, reflect upon your research for the paper and the class in general. What new things did you learn? Did your points of view change as you learned new facts? Did you become more aware of a variety of ethical believes? Do you feel more confident in analyzing consequences of a technology? Where the class discussions, readings, etc. helpful?

Due dates, requirements, etc.

• The paper must be 5-7 pages long.
• All the sources must be properly cited and bibliography should be included.
• The paper is due April 20th (Tuesday) in class. Your paper will be passed to another student for feedback.
• The feedback on another student's paper is due April 27th (Tuesday).
• The revised paper is due at the time of the final exam (May 5th, 1:30pm) in my office. Earlier submissions will be graded earlier.