Directions: Post your topic proposals in the comment section below. Follow the format that I gave you in class. We will do a sharing activity with what you post next class.
**Make sure that you save this on Google docs so you don't lose your work!**
Gene editing and the ethics of "playing God" have been long issues in the topic of bioethics. The discovery of a new method of genome editing called CRISPR-Cas9 has opened up new possibilities on the extent to which humans can alter the genetics of organisms, from bacteria all the way up to humans. Along with the novel technique, the issue of whether or not people should be allowed to edit human genomes has become even more relevant to our world today. For this paper, I plan to look at this issue from multiple viewpoints, including, but not limited to, doctors, scientists, and the patients themselves.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
1. To what extent does technology allow us to manipulate human genomes? 2. Are these changes permanent and/or heritable, verified through trial cases? 3. Are the results of this technique safe and reliable? Have or will these methods be approved? 4. How have other countries handled or answered this issue? 5. What diseases and disorders could this ameliorate or possibly cure? 6. What are the risks involved? 7. Do patients want to be treated? 8. Is genome editing moral? 9. What should the United States' viewpoint be regarding this issue? Should genome editing be legalized?
Sweet topic, bro!!! You should consider what other countries think about human genome editing, instead of just the United States!!! This will give you a more worldwide perspective on the issue!!!
Look, I found this link dealing with China: http://www.nature.com/news/chinese-scientists-genetically-modify-human-embryos-1.17378
Justin Frankel FOW Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Marijuana in Football Proposal: Over the past couple years, the NFL has seen it’s fair shares of suspensions of current players. Whether it be from domestic violence, failed drug tests, DUI’s, etc, there are usually a handful of players who serve suspensions from games. One thing that has become a huge problem is the way that the NFL has decided to discipline their players. We have now seen a chunk of people who are serving longer suspensions for failing a drug test then a person who has beaten their wife. Obviously, something has to be done because it is becoming more and more of a problem, and the players are becoming frustrated. For this paper I plan to study the issue and look at the controversy from multiple points of view, specifically two NFL players, coaches, media, and of course the fans.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What should the penalty be for a player who is charged with domestic violence? What should the penalty be for a player who fails a drug test? Should marijuana be allowed to be used by the players? Should the NFL offer help to repeat offenders? What can we as fans do? What can the NFL do differently to stop this? How do these suspensions affect who watches the game?
Gun control in New York has been a topic that many people have been concerned with. Ever since the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School Massacre, the state of New York has made gun laws significantly more strict. With the passage of the NY Safe Act, much controversy and issues have risen. Many argue that it violates the American citizens 2nd amendment rights to bear arms. In this paper, I will be examining the specifics of the gun laws that have been passed and whether or not it is just response to issues at hand. I will examine all viewpoints of the topic to gain a better idea of the controversy that surrounds this topic.
Questions to consider:
Are the current gun laws too strict? Do these gun laws violate the 2nd Amendment? Who do these gun laws mostly affect? Are these gun laws permanent? Does limiting the amount of ammo allowed in a magazine actually lessen gun related crime? Does New York have less gun related crimes with these strict gun laws? Are background checks the most efficient way to find out if someone should be able to own a gun? Do gun laws effect the illegal market at all? Is it any harder for someone to acquire a weapon with these laws in place?
Sean Haffner FOW Topic Proposal Response 04-19-2016
This is a very controversial topic in today’s society. Maybe you should focus on the restrictions in the state of New York rather than the entire United States. Many states have different restrictions on guns. Such as if you can own a automatic weapon and how many bullets are allowed to be in a magazine. Maybe talk about those laws and restrictions to narrow down your topic.
Here is a link that may help you with your topic: http://statelaws.findlaw.com/new-york-law/new-york-gun-control-laws.html
Currently there is a lot of controversy if the U.S. should declare war on ISIS or not. Just recently with the attack on paris credited to ISIS, it seems that every month ISIS attacks somewhere new and there is no way of predicting it. For this paper i plan to research this issue; i will be looking at this controversy from multiple points of view: politicians’, president’, troops’, congress’, and civilians’ perspectives.
Some questions i will need to consider are:
What would the cost effects be like? How many American Soldier casualties would there be? How much would the war cost? What are we benefiting by going to war? How long would the war last? What should be done? How many troops would be needed to fight this war?
This topic is definitely one of the most important and the most prevalent issues that is being discussed nowadays. It brings many pressing questions along with it. I think viewing the issue from different perspectives is a smart way of going about it because many people have different ideas about how waging war against them would effect the United States. You may want to consider the losses we've already taken in this fight and consider whether those are worth going to war over. Overall good topic choice on very controversial topic!
In recent days there has been quite a bit of controversy whether or not the FBI should be allowed to gain access to mobile devices of those who committed major crimes. There has been a major dispute between Apple and the FBI due to Apple’s failure to grant the FBI access to device that belonged to a person involved in a mass shooting that recently happened in California. There can be many different arguments about whether it is legal or illegal for the FBI or any local or government agency to do this. For this paper I plan to study the multiple points of view of average people, the FBI, Apple, and those affected by this controversy.
Some questions I will need to consider: Is it legal for the FBI to do this? Should apple have granted the FBI access to the phone? How did the FBI end up gaining access to the phone? Does this violate people’s privacy? Should the FBI or any local/govt agency have access to things like this? Is doing this constitutional or unconstitutional? If the FBI or any local/govt are able to gain access to personal devices of anyone how will they use the power they have?
I found this topic to be very interesting. I like how you focused strictly on the FBI’s access to mobile devices rather than access to all of a criminal’s personal belongings. You may want to consider how the FBI would distinguish crimes from being major or minor in order to determine if it is necessary to gain access to the criminals mobile device?
Recently there has been much discussion encompassing funding to Planned Parenthood. From newspapers to republican Carly Fiorina, even the presidential debates are addressing this controversy. For this paper I plan to analyze this issue, I will be looking f=at the controversy from numerous points of view: teenagers, adults, mothers, fathers, and communities perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Does Planned Parenthood deserved to be federally funded? Does Planned Parenthood only do abortion? What else? If abortion becomes illegal what will Parenthood do? How much money should Planned Parenthood receive? What happens to the community if a local Planned Parenthood get’s shut down? Effect? Is there any other options for some people other than Planned Parenthood? How much does Planned Parenthood need to keep the service going? Does Planned Parenthood actually help people or does is it just a waste of money
This is a good topic that is very controversial right now. In addition to looking at it from the view of different ages and genders, you could look at it from a conservative versus a more liberal viewpoint. You could also look at specific cases from people who have both had an abortion and those who decided not to.
Proposal: The controversy involved with ending the Cuban embargo has been relevant in modern American politics for the past several years. The embargo itself has been in place for over 50 years and some say the outdated policy should be thrown out, while others believe that doing this would ultimately hurt the Cuban citizens. I will be studying this issue and in the process I will research the arguments from both sides: those for the embargo and those against it.
Some questions I will need to consider are: What are the effects of the embargo on the Cuban/ American citizens? What are the effects of the embargo on the Cuban/American economy? What were the original guidelines of the embargo? Are they still realistic today? Why was the embargo initially made? What do Cuban-American citizens think of the embargo? Is the embargo achieving its original goals?
I think this is a very interesting topic to discuss. Maybe you could consider the pros and cons on keeping the Cuban Embargo going or stopping it. Considering both sides of the arguments could allow you to form a stronger, more precise argument. Another question you could consider would be what has changed with this Cuban Embargo from when it was originally created to now? Here's a link that could help you: http://cuba-embargo.procon.org/
Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Changing the drinking age to 18 in the United States Proposal: This controversy of dropping the drinking age to 18 has been brought up in many debates recently. All around the United States there are kids drinking under the age of 21, whether they are at parties to concerts and festivals that are held in their state. For this paper I plan to focus on other countries that have the drinking age at 18 and how they are handling the kids, the actions the United States would enforce if changing the drinking age and the effect of what will happen to the children once they start to drink at a younger age.
Some questions I will need to consider are: Would crime and violence increase in different states? Would there be more people drinking and then driving, therefore causing more crashes? Does this mean kids will start drinking at a younger age? Could this affect children’s growth development in the brain and body? Would the cost of alcohol increase or make it harder to get alcohol? By changing the drinking age would this stop kids from drinking at a younger age? Could changing the drinking age to 18 have an affect on the children in school. Could this cause kids to have a drinking problem when they are older?
Currently, changing the national drinking age is a hot topic in America. Would you consider looking at colleges for their students, presidents, and campus safety specifically? Many colleges have seen an increase in binge drinking and some believe that changing the legal age to 18 could help this.
Here's an article written by a college president who wants to change the legal age: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=93749553
I think this is a very controversial topic. Have you considered studying why the legal adult age is 18, but the legal drinking age is 21? Here's an article that may be useful; http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/02/10/you-must-be-21-to-drink
Tim Cook Forms of Writing Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Single Payer Healthcare Proposal: With the passing of the affordable care act and the current presidential election, the topic of government provided healthcare has become increasingly more important. All kinds of different viewpoints have arisen about this topic from no government action at all to full governmental control. For this paper I will be looking at all of these viewpoints and different plans and determine how effective they are and how economically and politically viable each of them are in the United States of America.
Some questions I will need to consider: What do other countries have it in place today? How effective are they and how happy are the people living there about them? When did the discussion of single payer healthcare begin? Who is fighting for and against a single payer system? Is the affordable care act a step towards this? Will a single payer system make health care cheaper? Would healthcare be more accessible to the public?
This is very interesting. You could also look at the presidential candidates plans for health and maybe decide which one would be best. Also, if that plan would be better than the affordable care act. I like your idea on comparing our health care system with other countries around the world.
Today, parents are ruining sports for their children. They put too much pressure on them, and eventually, the sport is not even fun for them anymore. The kids start to get discouraged and about 70% of kids quit sports by the age of 13. For this paper, I will look at this problem from multiple points of view. I will research the perspective of the players, parents, coaches and many more.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What is wrong with youth sports today? What are the parents doing that are good/bad for their kids? Are the rise of club teams discouraging kids from playing sports? Do coaches allow parents to be involved too much? Does the pressure the kids feel affect them in their adult life? Do the parents have different goals than the kids? In order to be good at a sport, does the entire life of the kid need to revolve around it?
This is a very interesting topic to research. Maybe figure out why parents push their children so hard.Are they trying to live their lives vicariously through their children? http://www.freep.com/story/life/family/2014/11/17/kids-sports-parents-pressure-stress/19188675/
Topic: Advertising Prescription Drugs Directly to Consumers
Proposal:
Recently there has been a lot of controversy regarding how prescription drugs are directly advertised to consumers. Opponents of DTC prescription drug ads argue that they misinform patients while proponents argue the opposite. Regardless, the US pharmaceutical industry has spent billions of dollars on advertising prescription drugs directly to consumers. The United States and New Zealand are the only two countries where direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription drugs is legal. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the consumers’, sellers’, and doctors’ perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What are the doctors’, consumers’, and sellers’ perspectives? What is the current law regarding prescription drug advertisement? What should be done? What is the effect of advertising directly to the consumer? Is this encouraging the prescription drug addiction outbreak? Is it worth promoting these pills to a wide range of viewers when only a few will benefit from the message? Would it be more appropriate to advertise and educate to doctors’ only considering they are the ones prescribing the drugs? Are the FDA’s regulations really ensuring that consumers’ are not misled? Why is DTC advertising of prescription drugs illegal everywhere besides US and New Zealand?
This is a really interesting topic. Would you consider focusing on specific views about direct-to-consumer from countries where it is illegal. It might be more effective to get views from the other perspective.
Here is a link that may help you further your research: http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/87/8/09-040809/en/
Currently there has been much controversy surrounding standardized tests in high school. Standardized tests have been a part of American education since the mid-1800’s. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the parents, teachers, college administrators, and the students perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What types of tests are being given? When did these tests become mandatory? What are the parents, teachers, college administrators, and students perspectives? Do standardized tests hurt or benefit the students long term? Is this an accurate way to test a student's knowledge? Are there any alternative ways in which we can test a student's knowledge? What should be done?
Paul Kwon: I found this topic interesting. How big of a difference do standardized tests make in college admissions? Applications are reviewed holistically. There are also standardized tests specific to certain areas of study, such as the SAT subject tests.
Here is an article that shows what a school's take towards standardized tests was: http://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/susan-milligan/2015/07/28/colleges-are-ditching-standardized-tests-grade-schools-should-follow
This is a really interesting topic. Have you thought about what the economic costs of standardized tests are? Giving the tests are expensive so it may be useful to talk about whether they hurt or help the economy or if there is any impact at all. Here's a link that looks like it may help: http://www.brookings.edu/blogs/up-front/posts/2015/02/02-standardized-tests-chingos
The participation trophy has been a topic of conversation among all generations for a while now. Older generations displaying their strong dislike for the participation trophy with a 20% yes and 80% no. Then there is “our generation who are all almost evenly split. The difference highlights the opposite ideals and differences in how each generation was raised. In this paper i plan to study every generations poles, kids opinions, physiological effects, and reasons for why people think they are good or bad.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Does it create a sense of entitlement? Do they crush children's self esteem when they are meant to build it up? What is the premise behind the award? What will a first place trophy mean in tomorrow's society? Are digital trophys a better answer? Why do some kids refuse to play unless there is a trophy? What will eliminating them completely do to the kids dependent on them? How old is too old to be getting a participation trophy?
Recently, standardized tests have been under scrutiny in the public schooling systems. While some students are opting out of testing, others feel it is an important measure of achievement. I plan to study this issue from two perspectives; those who feel the tests are important to education and those who feel they are not necessary.
Some questions I will consider are:
What are the different types of standardized tests? Who takes the tests? How often are the tests given? Why are standardized tests given? What do teachers think of them? What do parents and students think of them? What do the tests measure? Does funding play an important role in why the tests are given?
Sarah Dalakos I think this is a very interesting topic to study, specifically with the controversy over common core being so relevant in our society. You should consider the ages at which the students are taking the tests and the difficulty of the tests themselves. here is a link to help you: http://www.rethinkingschools.org/archive/27_04/edit274.shtml
Controversy: Many people have expressed concern about whether or not college athletes should be paid. Some argue that college athletes are performers and should be paid for their time and hard work even though they have their entire college education paid for. The NCAA disagrees, stating that student athletes are not “employees” under federal law. For this paper I plan to study this issue by looking at the controversy from the players’ coaches, media, and fan’s perspectives.
Specific question(s) that will guide my research: Should the NCAA change its rules to pay college athletes for the sport they play?
With the United States falling more and more behind in education, people are starting to consider measures to increase the provided education. Among these ideas is the extension of the school year for a full year-round schedule. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the students’, teachers’ and families’ perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
How did the current 9 month school year come about? Does extending the school year help education? Do other countries have school year-round? What do teachers, students, and families think? Would extra days of school be added? How would the vacations be planned out? What are the benefits of a 9 month school year?
Paul Kwon: Cool topic. I feel like you should compare the effectiveness of a longer high school year versus a shorter one. For examples, the days of schooling for college are generally shorter than the high school school year.
Here is an article that compares and contrasts the difference between the high school and college schedules: http://www.smu.edu/Provost/ALEC/NeatStuffforNewStudents/HowIsCollegeDifferentfromHighSchool
Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world. In certain countries, prostitution is considered a job, but in the United States and many other countries, it is illegal. In this paper, I plan to study the reason why prostitution is illegal in some countries and not considered a profession.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Why is prostitution legal in Nevada but not the rest of the United States? Will the United States legalize prostitution? Will legalizing prostitution help the United States’ economy? Will prostitutes become safer if prostitution is legal? Why was prostitution made illegal?
This is a really interesting topic and I cant wait to learn more about it. You could look at police cases of big prostitution rings being busted in the old days and the laws they made. http://www.criminaljusticedegreesguide.com/features/the-10-largest-prostitution-rings-in-american-history.html
Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Minimum Wage
Proposal: There has been a lot of controversy on minimum wage to be increased in New York. There has been more discussion on the fact that a family cannot live on $7.25 minimum wage. Increasing this minimum wage will supposivelt help create more jobs and stimulate the economy. I will be viewing families intakes on increasing the minimum wage in New York. In this paper I plan to go in depth on how increasing minimum wage will not only affect families but also the economy itself.
Some questions I will need to consider are: What type of people want this minimum wage increase? What will the increase do to the economy? How do high class people feel about it? How do low class people feel about it? How do you feel about McDonalds getting a wage increased to $15 an hour? What other chains do you think should get a minimum wage increase?
This is a topic that is always talked about, so it is very relevant. You could talk about California possibly and their debate to raise minimum wage to $15/hour. How would this affect our tax rate?
Here is an article that may help: http://journalistsresource.org/studies/economics/inequality/the-effects-of-raising-the-minimum-wage
Very, very interesting topic!!! You should consider how minimum wage would increase, if it is to be increased!!! Would it be slowly raised over the course of a few months, or done more rapidly!?!?!? It's an important question!!! Great topic by the way!!!
Aidan, Relevant topic. Consider looking at it from a small business perspective. It would be interesting to hear their thoughts and ideas on raising the minimum wage.
Anthony Rubino FOW Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Global Warming Proposal: The fact whether Global Warming is real or not has been questioned and debated over the last couple decades. As time goes on it becomes increasingly clear that Global Warming is an emerging threat. I plan to study Climate change and the effect it has on our Earth. I will be researching the effects humans have on Global Warming; our impact on Global Warming and how we can prevent further climate change.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What is the current evidence of Climate Change? How is our wildlife affected by Climate Change? How is our geography affected by Climate Change? What is being done to combat Climate Change? What are some major greenhouse gases? What emits them? What countries are taking actions against greenhouse gases? Why do some people doubt climate change?
I think your topic is really interesting. I think you should focus on how global warming is affecting specific places around the world. You should also go in depth on how it has affected the lives of certain people. here's a link that may help you: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/3342194/Global-warming-impact-on-continents.html
Check out this article (possible argument about climate change): http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/03/us/resettling-the-first-american-climate-refugees.html?_r=0
Kyle Pick FOW Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic:Should Steroids be allowed in baseball? Proposal: America’s pastime, properly known as baseball, has been the heart of many serious accusations partaking to the use of illegal performance enhancers on their players. Many players, in the past couple of decades hold statistics that ultimately can put them in the debate of greatest player of all time, but they may never be able to see their name on a statue in Cooperstown in the hall of fame due to their use of illegal steroids. In this research paper, I plan to explore the issue of our country’s national sport, and the use of illegal performance enhancers by some of the most famous players of all time.
Some questions that must be looked into are: How did steroids first become a problem in the game? How is the sport attempting to solve its problem with this issue? Where are the players getting steroids from? Should steroids actually be illegal? How do players compare before and after they have taken these PED’s? Is the league’s current guidelines regarding this issue effective? Why would players use steroids? Is there a connection between the players that have used steroids?
Arianna Shoemaker FOW Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Gay Marriage
Proposal:
There is currently a lot of controversy dealing with gay marriage. Some people are completely against gay marriage and think that because of their religion, it is against humanity to like or love anyone other than the opposite sex. Some people are completely for it, whoever you love you love and there is nothing you can do to change that, and there is nothing wrong with it. I will be looking at this issue from the perspectives of people who agree with it, disagree, and people who have no say.
Some questions I will need to consider are: What are the main issues on why gay marriage is so conflicting? When did gay marriage first become a major issue? Why are people so against it if it’s something that makes a person happy? Are churches becoming more open to it? How strict is gay marriage getting? What states are allowing it? What are the biggest cases or disagreements of gay marriage? What are some things that people can do to change the opinions of people who are against gay marriage?
This is a great proposal. I think you did a good job explaining your topic and the views in just a few sentences, but if you would consider it, maybe you could add specific examples of why people agree or disagree with it. Like quotes or family situations etc. But otherwise very good!
A link I think may help: http://allwomenstalk.com/8-reasons-to-support-gay-marriage http://www.tfpstudentaction.org/politically-incorrect/homosexuality/10-reasons-why-homosexual-marriage-is-harmful-and-must-be-opposed.html https://www.quora.com/What-are-all-the-arguments-against-gay-marriage https://infogr.am/10-reasons-why-gay-marriage-should-be-legalized
Proposal: Recently there has been a lot controversy surrounding video games, particularly whether or not violence in video games contribute to youth violence. With acts of youth violence arising around the world, people want to know if video games are to blame. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at this controversy from the perspectives of parents, players, psychologists, and well-known video game companies.
Some questions I will need to consider are: What causes people to have violent behaviors? How does video game violence affect the human brain? Out of the people that play violent video games, how many are known to have violent behaviors? Is this number significant? Does violence in other forms of media have the same effect on people? Is the current ESRB rating system for the video game industry appropriate? Does it need to be changed? What are the parents’, players’, psychologists’, video game companies’ perspectives? What should be done?
(Anthony Rubino):This topic is great. Global warming is definitely drawing more attention to society. My question is what is our past evidence of climate change? and why is it now becoming more of a problem? Hereis a link that talks about climate change: http://www.sciencealert.com/nasa-just-called-out-climate-change-deniers-on-facebook-and-it-was-glorious
Morgan Anderson FOW Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: The role of Young Voters in the Presidential Election
Proposal: Does it even matter if you go out and vote? It’s important to properly understand the different demographics of voters and their role in the election. There are many articles debating the power of social media and appealing to the younger generation. I plan on exploring the power and importance of gaining the millennials support.
Questions to consider: 1) Are politicians trying to appeal to the younger voters?
2) Who do they normally vote for and why?
3) What percentage of voters are millennials?
4) Does social media play a part in politics?
5) How many young adults actually vote?
6) Are there any trends that would indicate an increase in activity among younger voters? A decrease?
7) Which Presidents/ Presidential candidates have tried to capture the youth vote? Was is a successful strategy?
8) Which group of people hold the most control/power in the election?
Clare Lawson Forms of Writing Spring 2016 Formal Topic Proposal Topic: Animal Testing
Proposal: In the media recently, there has been a lot of discussion about animal testing and if it should or should not be allowed. Some people, like scientists, argue that it is necessary to test on animals because that will make products safe for humans. On the other hand, some people state that products that are harmful to animals when they were tested are still sold to humans with little to no warning. For this paper I plan to study this controversial issue. I will be looking at this topic through many different perspectives: scientists’, medical people’s, the ASPCA’s (an animal group), cosmetic companies’, the media’s, and citizens’.
Some questions I will need to consider are: What type of testing are they doing on these animals? Who is the testing beneficial to? Is there a way the people testing things on the animals could obtain the same information by different means? Who is most affected by this animal testing? What animals are the most tested on? What are all the different perspectives on this topic (scientists, medical people, ASPCA, cosmetic companies, media, general public, etc)? What should be done about this? How would stopping animal testing effect scientific/medical research?
ryan sitterly forms of writting topic proposal topic: violent video games and violence in kids
Throughout the year there has ben many questions surrounding how violent video games affect young chldren and if it makes them more aggresive. many studies have been dont to see the affects but no clear cut coclusion has been made. fot the paper ii plan to talk about how blamig violent games for aggresssive behavior is not true and that a kid dosnt becoe aggressive just because he plays a certain game. also i plan on talking about how the medie affects how parents view video games and if it guves them a worse reputaion than they deserve
how young is too toung to play a rated R game? does the more time spent on the game make you more aggressive? how many different studies have been done? should parent be concerned about what there kids are playing? can video games make an already pre existing condition worse? can playing video games for a little amount of time actaully be benficial?
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ReplyDeletePaul Kwon
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Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Bioethics
Proposal:
Gene editing and the ethics of "playing God" have been long issues in the topic of bioethics. The discovery of a new method of genome editing called CRISPR-Cas9 has opened up new possibilities on the extent to which humans can alter the genetics of organisms, from bacteria all the way up to humans. Along with the novel technique, the issue of whether or not people should be allowed to edit human genomes has become even more relevant to our world today. For this paper, I plan to look at this issue from multiple viewpoints, including, but not limited to, doctors, scientists, and the patients themselves.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
1. To what extent does technology allow us to manipulate human genomes?
2. Are these changes permanent and/or heritable, verified through trial cases?
3. Are the results of this technique safe and reliable? Have or will these methods be approved?
4. How have other countries handled or answered this issue?
5. What diseases and disorders could this ameliorate or possibly cure?
6. What are the risks involved?
7. Do patients want to be treated?
8. Is genome editing moral?
9. What should the United States' viewpoint be regarding this issue? Should genome editing be legalized?
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteSweet topic, bro!!! You should consider what other countries think about human genome editing, instead of just the United States!!! This will give you a more worldwide perspective on the issue!!!
DeleteLook, I found this link dealing with China: http://www.nature.com/news/chinese-scientists-genetically-modify-human-embryos-1.17378
I can't wait to see what your conclusion is!!!
Justin Frankel
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Marijuana in Football
Proposal:
Over the past couple years, the NFL has seen it’s fair shares of suspensions of current players. Whether it be from domestic violence, failed drug tests, DUI’s, etc, there are usually a handful of players who serve suspensions from games. One thing that has become a huge problem is the way that the NFL has decided to discipline their players. We have now seen a chunk of people who are serving longer suspensions for failing a drug test then a person who has beaten their wife. Obviously, something has to be done because it is becoming more and more of a problem, and the players are becoming frustrated. For this paper I plan to study the issue and look at the controversy from multiple points of view, specifically two NFL players, coaches, media, and of course the fans.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What should the penalty be for a player who is charged with domestic violence?
What should the penalty be for a player who fails a drug test?
Should marijuana be allowed to be used by the players?
Should the NFL offer help to repeat offenders?
What can we as fans do?
What can the NFL do differently to stop this?
How do these suspensions affect who watches the game?
This is an interesting topic and has the potential to cover multiple topics other than just marijuana in football.
DeleteThis is an interesting topic and has the potential to cover multiple topics other than just marijuana in football.
DeleteJordan Gerber
ReplyDeleteForms of Writing
Spring, 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Gun Control
Proposal:
Gun control in New York has been a topic that many people have been concerned with. Ever since the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School Massacre, the state of New York has made gun laws significantly more strict. With the passage of the NY Safe Act, much controversy and issues have risen. Many argue that it violates the American citizens 2nd amendment rights to bear arms. In this paper, I will be examining the specifics of the gun laws that have been passed and whether or not it is just response to issues at hand. I will examine all viewpoints of the topic to gain a better idea of the controversy that surrounds this topic.
Questions to consider:
Are the current gun laws too strict?
Do these gun laws violate the 2nd Amendment?
Who do these gun laws mostly affect?
Are these gun laws permanent?
Does limiting the amount of ammo allowed in a magazine actually lessen gun related crime?
Does New York have less gun related crimes with these strict gun laws?
Are background checks the most efficient way to find out if someone should be able to own a gun?
Do gun laws effect the illegal market at all? Is it any harder for someone to acquire a weapon with these laws in place?
Sean Haffner
DeleteFOW
Topic Proposal Response
04-19-2016
This is a very controversial topic in today’s society. Maybe you should focus on the restrictions in the state of New York rather than the entire United States. Many states have different restrictions on guns. Such as if you can own a automatic weapon and how many bullets are allowed to be in a magazine. Maybe talk about those laws and restrictions to narrow down your topic.
Here is a link that may help you with your topic:
http://statelaws.findlaw.com/new-york-law/new-york-gun-control-laws.html
Sean Haffner
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Topic: Should the U.S. Declare War on ISIS
Proposal:
Currently there is a lot of controversy if the U.S. should declare war on ISIS or not. Just recently with the attack on paris credited to ISIS, it seems that every month ISIS attacks somewhere new and there is no way of predicting it. For this paper i plan to research this issue; i will be looking at this controversy from multiple points of view: politicians’, president’, troops’, congress’, and civilians’ perspectives.
Some questions i will need to consider are:
What would the cost effects be like?
How many American Soldier casualties would there be?
How much would the war cost?
What are we benefiting by going to war?
How long would the war last?
What should be done?
How many troops would be needed to fight this war?
This topic is definitely one of the most important and the most prevalent issues that is being discussed nowadays. It brings many pressing questions along with it. I think viewing the issue from different perspectives is a smart way of going about it because many people have different ideas about how waging war against them would effect the United States. You may want to consider the losses we've already taken in this fight and consider whether those are worth going to war over. Overall good topic choice on very controversial topic!
DeleteJordan Gerber
Hunter Weiss
ReplyDeleteFow
Spring 2016
Topic: FBI’s access to mobile devices
Proposal:
In recent days there has been quite a bit of controversy whether or not the FBI should be allowed to gain access to mobile devices of those who committed major crimes. There has been a major dispute between Apple and the FBI due to Apple’s failure to grant the FBI access to device that belonged to a person involved in a mass shooting that recently happened in California. There can be many different arguments about whether it is legal or illegal for the FBI or any local or government agency to do this. For this paper I plan to study the multiple points of view of average people, the FBI, Apple, and those affected by this controversy.
Some questions I will need to consider:
Is it legal for the FBI to do this?
Should apple have granted the FBI access to the phone?
How did the FBI end up gaining access to the phone?
Does this violate people’s privacy?
Should the FBI or any local/govt agency have access to things like this?
Is doing this constitutional or unconstitutional?
If the FBI or any local/govt are able to gain access to personal devices of anyone how will they use the power they have?
I found this topic to be very interesting. I like how you focused strictly on the FBI’s access to mobile devices rather than access to all of a criminal’s personal belongings. You may want to consider how the FBI would distinguish crimes from being major or minor in order to determine if it is necessary to gain access to the criminals mobile device?
DeleteNoelle Hamilton
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Federal Funding to Planned Parenthood
Proposal:
Recently there has been much discussion encompassing funding to Planned Parenthood. From newspapers to republican Carly Fiorina, even the presidential debates are addressing this controversy. For this paper I plan to analyze this issue, I will be looking f=at the controversy from numerous points of view: teenagers, adults, mothers, fathers, and communities perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Does Planned Parenthood deserved to be federally funded?
Does Planned Parenthood only do abortion? What else?
If abortion becomes illegal what will Parenthood do?
How much money should Planned Parenthood receive?
What happens to the community if a local Planned Parenthood get’s shut down? Effect?
Is there any other options for some people other than Planned Parenthood?
How much does Planned Parenthood need to keep the service going?
Does Planned Parenthood actually help people or does is it just a waste of money
This is a good topic that is very controversial right now. In addition to looking at it from the view of different ages and genders, you could look at it from a conservative versus a more liberal viewpoint. You could also look at specific cases from people who have both had an abortion and those who decided not to.
DeleteHere is a good link about conservatives versus liberals on abortion. http://spectator.org/articles/63534/liberals-conservatives-and-abortion
DeleteSarah Dalakos
ReplyDeleteTopic: The Cuban Embargo
Proposal:
The controversy involved with ending the Cuban embargo has been relevant in modern American politics for the past several years. The embargo itself has been in place for over 50 years and some say the outdated policy should be thrown out, while others believe that doing this would ultimately hurt the Cuban citizens. I will be studying this issue and in the process I will research the arguments from both sides: those for the embargo and those against it.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What are the effects of the embargo on the Cuban/ American citizens?
What are the effects of the embargo on the Cuban/American economy?
What were the original guidelines of the embargo? Are they still realistic today?
Why was the embargo initially made?
What do Cuban-American citizens think of the embargo?
Is the embargo achieving its original goals?
I think this is a very interesting topic to discuss. Maybe you could consider the pros and cons on keeping the Cuban Embargo going or stopping it. Considering both sides of the arguments could allow you to form a stronger, more precise argument. Another question you could consider would be what has changed with this Cuban Embargo from when it was originally created to now?
DeleteHere's a link that could help you:
http://cuba-embargo.procon.org/
Sarah,
DeleteAwesome topic! I can't wait to see what you find and what you'll end up arguing.
Kate LaPorta
ReplyDeleteForms of Writing
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Changing the drinking age to 18 in the United States
Proposal:
This controversy of dropping the drinking age to 18 has been brought up in many debates recently. All around the United States there are kids drinking under the age of 21, whether they are at parties to concerts and festivals that are held in their state. For this paper I plan to focus on other countries that have the drinking age at 18 and how they are handling the kids, the actions the United States would enforce if changing the drinking age and the effect of what will happen to the children once they start to drink at a younger age.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Would crime and violence increase in different states?
Would there be more people drinking and then driving, therefore causing more crashes?
Does this mean kids will start drinking at a younger age?
Could this affect children’s growth development in the brain and body?
Would the cost of alcohol increase or make it harder to get alcohol?
By changing the drinking age would this stop kids from drinking at a younger age?
Could changing the drinking age to 18 have an affect on the children in school.
Could this cause kids to have a drinking problem when they are older?
Currently, changing the national drinking age is a hot topic in America. Would you consider looking at colleges for their students, presidents, and campus safety specifically? Many colleges have seen an increase in binge drinking and some believe that changing the legal age to 18 could help this.
DeleteHere's an article written by a college president who wants to change the legal age: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=93749553
I think this is a very controversial topic. Have you considered studying why the legal adult age is 18, but the legal drinking age is 21? Here's an article that may be useful;
Deletehttp://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/02/10/you-must-be-21-to-drink
Tim Cook
ReplyDeleteForms of Writing
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Single Payer Healthcare
Proposal:
With the passing of the affordable care act and the current presidential election, the topic of government provided healthcare has become increasingly more important. All kinds of different viewpoints have arisen about this topic from no government action at all to full governmental control. For this paper I will be looking at all of these viewpoints and different plans and determine how effective they are and how economically and politically viable each of them are in the United States of America.
Some questions I will need to consider:
What do other countries have it in place today?
How effective are they and how happy are the people living there about them?
When did the discussion of single payer healthcare begin?
Who is fighting for and against a single payer system?
Is the affordable care act a step towards this?
Will a single payer system make health care cheaper?
Would healthcare be more accessible to the public?
This is very interesting. You could also look at the presidential candidates plans for health and maybe decide which one would be best. Also, if that plan would be better than the affordable care act. I like your idea on comparing our health care system with other countries around the world.
Deletehttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/29/most-efficient-healthcare_n_3825477.html
DeleteTim, Such a hot topic!
DeleteAlex Izzo
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: How parents are affecting youth sports
Proposal:
Today, parents are ruining sports for their children. They put too much pressure on them, and eventually, the sport is not even fun for them anymore. The kids start to get discouraged and about 70% of kids quit sports by the age of 13. For this paper, I will look at this problem from multiple points of view. I will research the perspective of the players, parents, coaches and many more.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What is wrong with youth sports today?
What are the parents doing that are good/bad for their kids?
Are the rise of club teams discouraging kids from playing sports?
Do coaches allow parents to be involved too much?
Does the pressure the kids feel affect them in their adult life?
Do the parents have different goals than the kids?
In order to be good at a sport, does the entire life of the kid need to revolve around it?
This is a very interesting topic to research. Maybe figure out why parents push their children so hard.Are they trying to live their lives vicariously through their children?
Deletehttp://www.freep.com/story/life/family/2014/11/17/kids-sports-parents-pressure-stress/19188675/
Brooke Cleveland
ReplyDeleteFOW
4/15/16
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Advertising Prescription Drugs Directly to Consumers
Proposal:
Recently there has been a lot of controversy regarding how prescription drugs are directly advertised to consumers. Opponents of DTC prescription drug ads argue that they misinform patients while proponents argue the opposite. Regardless, the US pharmaceutical industry has spent billions of dollars on advertising prescription drugs directly to consumers. The United States and New Zealand are the only two countries where direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription drugs is legal. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the consumers’, sellers’, and doctors’ perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What are the doctors’, consumers’, and sellers’ perspectives?
What is the current law regarding prescription drug advertisement?
What should be done?
What is the effect of advertising directly to the consumer?
Is this encouraging the prescription drug addiction outbreak?
Is it worth promoting these pills to a wide range of viewers when only a few will benefit from the message?
Would it be more appropriate to advertise and educate to doctors’ only considering they are the ones prescribing the drugs?
Are the FDA’s regulations really ensuring that consumers’ are not misled?
Why is DTC advertising of prescription drugs illegal everywhere besides US and New Zealand?
This is a really interesting topic. Would you consider focusing on specific views about direct-to-consumer from countries where it is illegal. It might be more effective to get views from the other perspective.
DeleteHere is a link that may help you further your research:
http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/87/8/09-040809/en/
Brooke,
DeleteExcellent topic and great questions!
Kayla Cleary
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Topic: High School Standardized Tests
Proposal:
Currently there has been much controversy surrounding standardized tests in high school. Standardized tests have been a part of American education since the mid-1800’s. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the parents, teachers, college administrators, and the students perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What types of tests are being given?
When did these tests become mandatory?
What are the parents, teachers, college administrators, and students perspectives?
Do standardized tests hurt or benefit the students long term?
Is this an accurate way to test a student's knowledge?
Are there any alternative ways in which we can test a student's knowledge?
What should be done?
Paul Kwon: I found this topic interesting. How big of a difference do standardized tests make in college admissions? Applications are reviewed holistically. There are also standardized tests specific to certain areas of study, such as the SAT subject tests.
DeleteHere is an article that shows what a school's take towards standardized tests was:
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/susan-milligan/2015/07/28/colleges-are-ditching-standardized-tests-grade-schools-should-follow
This is a really interesting topic. Have you thought about what the economic costs of standardized tests are? Giving the tests are expensive so it may be useful to talk about whether they hurt or help the economy or if there is any impact at all.
DeleteHere's a link that looks like it may help: http://www.brookings.edu/blogs/up-front/posts/2015/02/02-standardized-tests-chingos
Kayla,
DeleteGreat topic. Your classmates found some great articles to help you out.
Darby LaFlamme
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Topic: Participation Trophies in youth sports
The participation trophy has been a topic of conversation among all generations for a while now. Older generations displaying their strong dislike for the participation trophy with a 20% yes and 80% no. Then there is “our generation who are all almost evenly split. The difference highlights the opposite ideals and differences in how each generation was raised. In this paper i plan to study every generations poles, kids opinions, physiological effects, and reasons for why people think they are good or bad.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Does it create a sense of entitlement?
Do they crush children's self esteem when they are meant to build it up?
What is the premise behind the award?
What will a first place trophy mean in tomorrow's society?
Are digital trophys a better answer?
Why do some kids refuse to play unless there is a trophy?
What will eliminating them completely do to the kids dependent on them?
How old is too old to be getting a participation trophy?
I find this topic very interesting. It will be interesting to see how kids react to this, however it turns out. A link that you might find helpful is
Delete\http://changingthegameproject.com/the-great-trophy-debate-do-we-need-participation-awards/
Caroline Gaul
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Standardized Tests
Proposal:
Recently, standardized tests have been under scrutiny in the public schooling systems. While some students are opting out of testing, others feel it is an important measure of achievement. I plan to study this issue from two perspectives; those who feel the tests are important to education and those who feel they are not necessary.
Some questions I will consider are:
What are the different types of standardized tests?
Who takes the tests?
How often are the tests given?
Why are standardized tests given?
What do teachers think of them?
What do parents and students think of them?
What do the tests measure?
Does funding play an important role in why the tests are given?
Sarah Dalakos
DeleteI think this is a very interesting topic to study, specifically with the controversy over common core being so relevant in our society. You should consider the ages at which the students are taking the tests and the difficulty of the tests themselves.
here is a link to help you:
http://www.rethinkingschools.org/archive/27_04/edit274.shtml
SAMPLE STUDENT
ReplyDeleteTopic: Paying college athletes
Controversy:
Many people have expressed concern about whether or not college athletes should be paid. Some argue that college athletes are performers and should be paid for their time and hard work even though they have their entire college education paid for. The NCAA disagrees, stating that student athletes are not “employees” under federal law. For this paper I plan to study this issue by looking at the controversy from the players’ coaches, media, and fan’s perspectives.
Specific question(s) that will guide my research: Should the NCAA change its rules to pay college athletes for the sport they play?
Osama Minhas
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: School Year Length
Proposal:
With the United States falling more and more behind in education, people are starting to consider measures to increase the provided education. Among these ideas is the extension of the school year for a full year-round schedule. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the students’, teachers’ and families’ perspectives.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
How did the current 9 month school year come about?
Does extending the school year help education?
Do other countries have school year-round?
What do teachers, students, and families think?
Would extra days of school be added?
How would the vacations be planned out?
What are the benefits of a 9 month school year?
Paul Kwon: Cool topic. I feel like you should compare the effectiveness of a longer high school year versus a shorter one. For examples, the days of schooling for college are generally shorter than the high school school year.
DeleteHere is an article that compares and contrasts the difference between the high school and college schedules:
http://www.smu.edu/Provost/ALEC/NeatStuffforNewStudents/HowIsCollegeDifferentfromHighSchool
Ayo Elefontuyi
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Prostitution
Proposal:
Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world. In certain countries, prostitution is considered a job, but in the United States and many other countries, it is illegal. In this paper, I plan to study the reason why prostitution is illegal in some countries and not considered a profession.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
Why is prostitution legal in Nevada but not the rest of the United States?
Will the United States legalize prostitution?
Will legalizing prostitution help the United States’ economy?
Will prostitutes become safer if prostitution is legal?
Why was prostitution made illegal?
This is a really interesting topic and I cant wait to learn more about it. You could look at police cases of big prostitution rings being busted in the old days and the laws they made.
Deletehttp://www.criminaljusticedegreesguide.com/features/the-10-largest-prostitution-rings-in-american-history.html
Ayo,
DeleteGreat topic! Look at the economy in Nevada and see if the legalization of prostitution aids the economy.
Aidan Byrne
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Minimum Wage
Proposal: There has been a lot of controversy on minimum wage to be increased in New York. There has been more discussion on the fact that a family cannot live on $7.25 minimum wage. Increasing this minimum wage will supposivelt help create more jobs and stimulate the economy. I will be viewing families intakes on increasing the minimum wage in New York. In this paper I plan to go in depth on how increasing minimum wage will not only affect families but also the economy itself.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What type of people want this minimum wage increase?
What will the increase do to the economy?
How do high class people feel about it?
How do low class people feel about it?
How do you feel about McDonalds getting a wage increased to $15 an hour?
What other chains do you think should get a minimum wage increase?
This is a topic that is always talked about, so it is very relevant. You could talk about California possibly and their debate to raise minimum wage to $15/hour. How would this affect our tax rate?
DeleteHere is an article that may help:
http://journalistsresource.org/studies/economics/inequality/the-effects-of-raising-the-minimum-wage
Very, very interesting topic!!! You should consider how minimum wage would increase, if it is to be increased!!! Would it be slowly raised over the course of a few months, or done more rapidly!?!?!? It's an important question!!! Great topic by the way!!!
DeleteAidan,
DeleteRelevant topic. Consider looking at it from a small business perspective. It would be interesting to hear their thoughts and ideas on raising the minimum wage.
Anthony Rubino
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Global Warming
Proposal:
The fact whether Global Warming is real or not has been questioned and debated over the last couple decades. As time goes on it becomes increasingly clear that Global Warming is an emerging threat. I plan to study Climate change and the effect it has on our Earth. I will be researching the effects humans have on Global Warming; our impact on Global Warming and how we can prevent further climate change.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What is the current evidence of Climate Change?
How is our wildlife affected by Climate Change?
How is our geography affected by Climate Change?
What is being done to combat Climate Change?
What are some major greenhouse gases? What emits them?
What countries are taking actions against greenhouse gases?
Why do some people doubt climate change?
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI think your topic is really interesting. I think you should focus on how global warming is affecting specific places around the world. You should also go in depth on how it has affected the lives of certain people. here's a link that may help you: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/3342194/Global-warming-impact-on-continents.html
DeleteThis is a very good topic to research. Maybe to narrow it down a little you can focus on climate change within certain regions of the world.
DeleteThis is a good topic you should put in who first started noticing global warming and who brought it out to the public #haannnn
DeleteAnthony,
DeleteCheck out this article (possible argument about climate change): http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/03/us/resettling-the-first-american-climate-refugees.html?_r=0
Kyle Pick
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic:Should Steroids be allowed in baseball?
Proposal:
America’s pastime, properly known as baseball, has been the heart of many serious accusations partaking to the use of illegal performance enhancers on their players. Many players, in the past couple of decades hold statistics that ultimately can put them in the debate of greatest player of all time, but they may never be able to see their name on a statue in Cooperstown in the hall of fame due to their use of illegal steroids. In this research paper, I plan to explore the issue of our country’s national sport, and the use of illegal performance enhancers by some of the most famous players of all time.
Some questions that must be looked into are:
How did steroids first become a problem in the game?
How is the sport attempting to solve its problem with this issue?
Where are the players getting steroids from?
Should steroids actually be illegal?
How do players compare before and after they have taken these PED’s?
Is the league’s current guidelines regarding this issue effective?
Why would players use steroids?
Is there a connection between the players that have used steroids?
Arianna Shoemaker
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Gay Marriage
Proposal:
There is currently a lot of controversy dealing with gay marriage. Some people are completely against gay marriage and think that because of their religion, it is against humanity to like or love anyone other than the opposite sex. Some people are completely for it, whoever you love you love and there is nothing you can do to change that, and there is nothing wrong with it. I will be looking at this issue from the perspectives of people who agree with it, disagree, and people who have no say.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What are the main issues on why gay marriage is so conflicting?
When did gay marriage first become a major issue?
Why are people so against it if it’s something that makes a person happy?
Are churches becoming more open to it?
How strict is gay marriage getting?
What states are allowing it?
What are the biggest cases or disagreements of gay marriage?
What are some things that people can do to change the opinions of people who are against gay marriage?
This is a great proposal. I think you did a good job explaining your topic and the views in just a few sentences, but if you would consider it, maybe you could add specific examples of why people agree or disagree with it. Like quotes or family situations etc. But otherwise very good!
DeleteA link I think may help:
http://allwomenstalk.com/8-reasons-to-support-gay-marriage
http://www.tfpstudentaction.org/politically-incorrect/homosexuality/10-reasons-why-homosexual-marriage-is-harmful-and-must-be-opposed.html
https://www.quora.com/What-are-all-the-arguments-against-gay-marriage
https://infogr.am/10-reasons-why-gay-marriage-should-be-legalized
Austin Schafer
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Topic: Violence in Video Games
Proposal:
Recently there has been a lot controversy surrounding video games, particularly whether or not violence in video games contribute to youth violence. With acts of youth violence arising around the world, people want to know if video games are to blame. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I will be looking at this controversy from the perspectives of parents, players, psychologists, and well-known video game companies.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What causes people to have violent behaviors?
How does video game violence affect the human brain?
Out of the people that play violent video games, how many are known to have violent behaviors? Is this number significant?
Does violence in other forms of media have the same effect on people?
Is the current ESRB rating system for the video game industry appropriate? Does it need to be changed?
What are the parents’, players’, psychologists’, video game companies’ perspectives?
What should be done?
(Anthony Rubino):This topic is great. Global warming is definitely drawing more attention to society. My question is what is our past evidence of climate change? and why is it now becoming more of a problem?
ReplyDeleteHereis a link that talks about climate change: http://www.sciencealert.com/nasa-just-called-out-climate-change-deniers-on-facebook-and-it-was-glorious
Morgan Anderson
ReplyDeleteFOW
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: The role of Young Voters in the Presidential Election
Proposal:
Does it even matter if you go out and vote? It’s important to properly understand the different demographics of voters and their role in the election. There are many articles debating the power of social media and appealing to the younger generation. I plan on exploring the power and importance of gaining the millennials support.
Questions to consider:
1) Are politicians trying to appeal to the younger voters?
2) Who do they normally vote for and why?
3) What percentage of voters are millennials?
4) Does social media play a part in politics?
5) How many young adults actually vote?
6) Are there any trends that would indicate an increase in activity among younger voters? A decrease?
7) Which Presidents/ Presidential candidates have tried to capture the youth vote? Was is a successful strategy?
8) Which group of people hold the most control/power in the election?
Clare Lawson
ReplyDeleteForms of Writing
Spring 2016
Formal Topic Proposal
Topic: Animal Testing
Proposal:
In the media recently, there has been a lot of discussion about animal testing and if it should or should not be allowed. Some people, like scientists, argue that it is necessary to test on animals because that will make products safe for humans. On the other hand, some people state that products that are harmful to animals when they were tested are still sold to humans with little to no warning. For this paper I plan to study this controversial issue. I will be looking at this topic through many different perspectives: scientists’, medical people’s, the ASPCA’s (an animal group), cosmetic companies’, the media’s, and citizens’.
Some questions I will need to consider are:
What type of testing are they doing on these animals?
Who is the testing beneficial to?
Is there a way the people testing things on the animals could obtain the same information by different means?
Who is most affected by this animal testing?
What animals are the most tested on?
What are all the different perspectives on this topic (scientists, medical people, ASPCA, cosmetic companies, media, general public, etc)?
What should be done about this?
How would stopping animal testing effect scientific/medical research?
ryan sitterly
ReplyDeleteforms of writting
topic proposal
topic: violent video games and violence in kids
Throughout the year there has ben many questions surrounding how violent video games affect young chldren and if it makes them more aggresive. many studies have been dont to see the affects but no clear cut coclusion has been made. fot the paper ii plan to talk about how blamig violent games for aggresssive behavior is not true and that a kid dosnt becoe aggressive just because he plays a certain game. also i plan on talking about how the medie affects how parents view video games and if it guves them a worse reputaion than they deserve
how young is too toung to play a rated R game?
does the more time spent on the game make you more aggressive?
how many different studies have been done?
should parent be concerned about what there kids are playing?
can video games make an already pre existing condition worse?
can playing video games for a little amount of time actaully be benficial?