Assignment

For this assignment, you need to choose one historic debate over freedom that we have discussed in class and compare it to a similar contemporary (present day) debate. You should not disclose your own opinion or stance in this debate. Rather, practice critical thinking skills by identifying and describing the perspectives of each side and assessing what is at stake for each party involved.

Identify and briefly describe the historic debate.
How did it originate?
Who was involved?
What were the opposing arguments?
How did this debate conclude?
Was there a resolution?
What were the terms the settlement/resolution?
What was at stake?

Identify and briefly describe the contemporary debate.
How does it relate to the historic debate?
How did it reemerge?
Who is involved?
What are the opposing arguments?
Has this debate concluded or is it ongoing?
Has either side suggested or taken action toward securing a resolution?
What is at stake?

You may choose one of the topics listed below or come up with one on your own, as long as it has been discussed in class.

-Liberty of contract

-Female emancipation (control of one's body and sexuality)

-Immigration

-Free Speech

-Government intervention in the economy

-Voting Rights

-Social Welfare

-American expansion/ foreign intervention

-Workers' Rights

Do NOT answer each question one-by-one without transition sentences. Instead, you should write a short essay, which integrates the answers to each question into your reflection. You may cite directly from the outside sources if you choose, but you may not use a quote that is more than 2 sentences in length. For this assignment, you may use a parenthetical citation and a brief works cited page with references and/or internet links to your sources.