In keeping with our primary course content, critical analysis and discussion of contemporary social issues as well as writing about such issues, we will watch a video of students debating affirmative action in Philosophy Professor Michael Sandel’s Justice Course at Harvard College. Do you think there are any situations that warrant special consideration in college admissions, such as race, ethnicity, or veteran status? Or do you think that college admissions should be blind to all such considerations? As you watch the video, you may wish to jot down the primary points of contention on both sides of the issue. Watch at least twenty-five minutes of the video before you attempt the discussion. At the end of the twenty-five minutes, you should be familiar with 1) the compensatory argument for affirmative action, 2) the corrective argument for affirmative action, and 3) the diversity argument for affirmative action.
Learning Objectives
2. Develop ideas and synthesize primary and secondary sources within focused academic arguments, including one or more research-based essays.

3. Analyze, interpret, and evaluate a variety of texts for the ethical and logical uses of evidence.

4. Write in a style that clearly communicates meaning, builds credibility, and inspires belief or action.