Philosophy 101
Short essay assignment:  Hobbes/Locke
Due Tuesday, March 18th

As we have seen, both Hobbes and Locke use the framework of social contract theory to develop
their accounts of the existence of, and justification for, the state.  Your task in this 3-5 page (typed,
double-spaced) essay is to set out and critically evaluate either Hobbes or Locke's account.  In
setting out either account, you should be sure to focus on providing the following:

    --A clear, careful explanation of the author's account of the "state of nature"--the condition of
          human beings outside the state.

    --A clear, careful explanation of the author's account of how the state is created, the
          conditions under which individuals agree to enter into it, and the extent of its authority.

In setting out one of these author's views, you should also pay some attention to the way in which it
is similar to, and different from, the other's account.  [That is, if you focus on Hobbes' view, you should
pay some attention to the way in which it is similar to, and different from, Locke's account.]  Remember
that the goal is to set out the author's view in a way that shows a thorough command of it.  The more
clearly and carefully you can explain the most crucial features the better.

Once you have set out the view carefully in this way, you should critically evaluate it.  The best way
of doing this is to consider a serious objection to the view and explain it carefully.  Then consider
how the author will reply to this objection.  Is the reply adequate?  If not, why not?  If so, why so?
The more carefully you can develop your reasoning here the better.  Finally, what does your
discussion here lead you to conclude about the justification for the existence of the state and the
conditions under which you should obey its commands (laws).


Remember, essays are due Tuesday, March 18th


Note:  Please feel free to ask for my help as you're working on your essay.  I'll be happy to answer
            your questions.  I'll even read an outline or a rough draft and give you some ideas for what
            might improve it.  

Please review my comments on plagiarism in the syllabus. Minimum penalty for intentionally
            plagiarized work is an 'F' in the course.

Note:  In your quest to write an excellent paper, pay careful attention to the rules that Vaughn
          develops in Chpt. 3 of his book.  His discussion in Chpt. 4 is also very helpful.  In
          particular, you should be sure that your paper has a thesis.  This is the main claim that
          you will defend in the paper.