Structure of the Examination

This examination should take one hour. You will be expected to write about eight bluebook pages. All the questions on the examination will be taken from a list published about a week before the examination. In order to reduce the anxiety associated with decision-making, the questions to be answered will be selected by the instructor.

1. Definitions (1/2 to 1 page)—Definitions should state a genus & a specific difference. Clarifications of other terms should use that structure when appropriate. They should, when possible, also include an illustration. Points of contrast may also be helpful in defining a term, as might a discussion of the importance of the term to moral philosophy. A one line answer will generally be insufficient.

2. Distinctions (1-2 pages)—Define both terms in a way that shows there similarities and difference, as above. Then, if appropriate, say why the distinction is important.

3. Arguments (1-2 pages)—State the argument in a way that makes the conclusion and the premises on which it is based clear. Then say informally why the author thinks the premises are true. (This might include definitions of key terms or cases from which the premises are induced.)

4. Statement of Theories (1-2 pages)—Say what problem the theory is trying to resolve (or what question it is trying to answer). Add definitions, examples, contrasts, &c., as necessary to clarify the theory.

5. Essays (4 pages)—Essays should combine definitions, distinctions, & arguments into a coherent & well-organized exposition, comparison, & contrast of the subject matter.