the following topics to write your first essay about. Remember, you are develop

the following topics to write your first essay about. Remember, you are developing an argument, so any paper must put forth a claim (thesis) and give reasons (premises) for that claim. These premises should be connected to one another, not just separate pieces of evidence. The best papers will include anticipation of objections to at least one of your reasons and respond to those objections
2.  I have a dog named Fletcher. He’s cute and lovable, but also sometimes obnoxious and stubborn. But is he a person?
You need to write a paper in which you make a philosophical argument about whether or not Fletcher (or any animal of your choosing) is a person.
You will want to begin with a strong, concise, and clear thesis: “In this paper I will argue that Fletcher is/is not a person because. . .” 
You will want to develop a definition of personhood based on the readings and any other sources you may use. Feel free to incorporate other sources into this essay, BUT DO NOT SIMPLY QUOTE DICTIONARY.COM OR OTHER SOURCE FOR YOU DEFINITION. You need to develop a definition that you then use for your argument. Remember the Harvard Guide — defining your terms will be a big part of this essay.
 
Your paper, regardless of the question you choose, should be 750 — 1000 words (this word count does not include references/works cited).

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