Contemporary Moral Problems

1. Do individuals have significant duties to refrain from activities typically thought to contribute to global warming? In answering this question, be sure to carefully explain Walter Sinnott-Armstrong’s argument regarding this and consider two thoughtful objections to it. 2. A and B are dating and have not had sex. B does not now want to have sex with A. A says to B, “if we don’t have sex this week, I’m breaking up with you.” In light of this, B has sex with A. Is this sexual activity morally problematic, and if so, in what way, and why? In answering this question, consider the arguments of Sarah Conly and at least one of the other authors we read on this topic. 3. Sharon and Candy, the deaf couple described in Liza Mundy’s article, “A World of Their Own,” use donor sperm from a deaf friend so that they can maximize their chances of having a deaf baby. Have Sharon and Candy acted wrongly? Why might someone think so? How might they defend themselves? In answering this question, consult the extra reading by Derek Parfit (ch. 16 of Reasons and Persons, especially sections 119, 122, 123, and 125).      

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