Science/Religion Controversy

Assignment

For this paper, you are to write an essay that investigates some issue of current controversy that lies at the intersection of religion and science. Some easy examples are: creationism/intelligent design, human cloning, abortion rights, "designer" babies, same-sex marriage, euthanasia, and stem cell research. If you have another topic in mind, you may certainly use it, but make sure to get approval from me first.

You should research your topic to find four or five quality sources of information regarding the controversy. You may use sources off the web, but you should strive to evaluate the quality/reputation of your sources to ensure that you are not using "Joe Blow's Unsubstantiated Opinion Pages" as an authoritative reference. In your essay you should do the following:

• Explain your chosen topic. For example, if you choose human cloning, you need to lay out exactly what human cloning entails. This will basically be a description of the science and technology aspects of your issue.
• Explain the controversy behind the issue. Presumably, there will be some people who object to pursuing certain aspects of this science or technology based on religious views. What are the sides of the debate and what are the people on each side saying?
• Take a position on the issue. Based on what you have found, you should take a side in the controversy and defend your position. This means you must explain why you give less weight to the arguments of the opposing side. You should also try to anticipate possible responses to your arguments and deflect them.

Grading Criteria

1. The paper demonstrates a clear understanding of the science of the issue. 20%
2. The paper demonstrates a clear understanding of the controversy surrounding the issue, and the arguments made on both sides. 20%
3. The paper includes at least four quality references to material discussing this controversy and includes both a bibliography and appropriate citations of of the references within the essay. 20%
4. The paper clearly presents the author's opinion in a thoughtful and persuasive manner. 20%
5. Format, usage, grammar, punctuation, spelling. 20%