800 word essay In chapter two we covered several arguments that deal with whether or not there is mind or only a physical brain that directs thinking. Take a position whether you think there is a mind separate from the body (brain)and explain how, given your choice you think the two interact. Alternatively you may take the position that there is only a physical brain that directs thinking and explain how one would account for the operations usually ascribed to mind. You should begin by stating the position you want to defend and say whether or not you agree with this argument. If you disagree with this argument take any of the counter arguments for the opposing position and be sure to: (1) give a brief outline of this argument, (2) tell me what its strong points are, and (3) subject it to a thought experiment of your own design (that means, don’t copy from the book), to show why mind separate from the physical body is not a viable position.  Finally, discuss how this issue affects you at a personal level.
(Second Choice) In chapter 3 you learned about issues and arguments associated with the question of free will. The issue I would like you to discuss is whether you think free will and voluntary action is possible and how you would explain why we are free even though the universe around us operates according to a fixed and fully determined set of laws. In other words how is it possible, if in fact is possible, to act in a voluntary manner (meaning we all take full responsibility for our actions), while all the laws of nature seem to say otherwise. Take a position whether you think free will is possible. You should begin by stating the determinist position and say whether or not you agree with this argument. If you agree with this argument take any of the counter arguments for freedom of the will and be sure to: (1) give a brief outline of this argument, (2) tell me what its strong points are, and (3) subject it to a thought experiment of your own design (that means, don’t copy from the book), to show why free will is a viable position.  Finally, discuss how this issue affects you at a personal level. 

Instructions:
  
1. The minimum word count for these essays is 800. When you submit them please be sure to use the ecampus HTML link (associated with each paper assignment), feature to deliver the paper Please do not email them to me. The deadline for the submission of these papers is the last day of regularly scheduled class. The purpose of these papers is to focus on one argument or theory. The goal is not to do research (looking up stuff in the library) but to focus your thoughts on one argument or one position and dig deep. Your grade on these papers will be primarily based on the clarity of your writing, the command of the material and the depth of your explanations. (Which side of the issue you are on is completely irrelevant).You should also briefly explain the effect this assignment has had on your view of the subject.(i.e., has the assignment strengthened your initial position, or has it been altered as a result of doing the assignment, and explain how. You will also be graded according your ability to create an informed personal response to a philosophical problem by writing an essay in which you develop and defend your personal response to a selected philosophical problem.