Homo sapiens sapiens: What makes us human?

PAPER 1
Due October 6 (Rewrite due October 20)
Typed, double-spaced, stapled, and with pages numbered
2 copies

Length is flexible, but aim for 4-5 pages.

Please attach a completed Writer Response form to the copy for your fellow.

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Task

What distinguishes between humans and non-humans? That is, what is the dividing line between creatures that are human and creatures that are non-human?

1. Please present two competing views of where to draw the line between human and non-human. Then make the two views compete (as in a debate).
2. Clearly specify the criteria (characteristics) each side is using to determine what is human vs. not.
3. Conclude by saying what your own view is and why. If you disagree with both or if you have not yet reached a conclusion, please explain your reasoning.

Format

• You may use any format that is effective for your purpose. I welcome creativity!
• It can be in the form of a debate, a conversation, regular expository essay, etc. It can even be a single person’s change in view over time.
• If you are summarizing or quoting some article, please insert a citation in the text. It need include only the author, page, and whatever else required to distinguish it from other readings. If it is not a class reading, please also provide the full citation in a bibliography at the end of the paper.
• Please pay attention to the instructions at the top of this page.

 Evaluation criteria

• A clear "dividing line" for both sides of your debate.
• An argument--a clear and persuasive one--to support each side of the debate.
• Your third-party commentary on the debate explains why you reached the conclusion you did.
• Demonstrates knowledge of ideas and evidence in the readings by using them where appropriate to support, explain, and decide between the two sides.
• Clear, well-organized writing that stays on topic and does not drift into irrelevancies.
• Words and sentences have “meat” and meaning (not empty or fuzzy).

Advice

• Reread the assignment one more time after you have finished your paper. Did you answer all parts of the question? Staple your paper? Fill out a Writer Response form?

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