Applying Ethical Systems

Construct an essay (1,000-1,250 words) that applies an ethical theory (chosen from ethical theories below) to a particular moral issue (chosen from topics below). In your essay do the following:

Provide a brief introduction and thesis statement (75-100 words).
Define or describe a selected moral issue involving an ethical dilemma (the dilemma should be framed as either “support” or “oppose” the moral issue from one of the topics listed below. Example: either support capital punishment or oppose capital punishment) (150-200 words).
State one or more claims made by each opposing position on the selected moral issue (250-300 words).
Select and describe a normative ethical theory that you will utilize to answer the moral dilemma from the topic selected in #2, above (150-200 words).
Utilizing the selected normative ethical theory, provide one or more detailed arguments to defend your position (you position must be either “support” or “oppose” the moral issue from the topic selected) (250-300 words).
In conclusion, express how your stance on the moral issue impacts your own behavior (75-100 words).

Topics:

Abortion
Assisted suicide / euthanasia
Capital punishment
Torture
Compensation for College Athletes
Gambling
Recreational marijuana use
Pornography
Performance enhancing drugs
Prostitution
Genetic engineering
Mandatory vaccinations

Ethical Theories:

Kantian Ethics / Deontology
Utilitarianism
Christian Ethics or Theological Ethics
Virtue Ethics or Natural Law Ethics

While empirical data and/or statistics may be integrated into your essay, this should not be excessive.
Use and properly cite information from at least two course materials (for example: class lectures, topic overview, textbook, topic videos, additional supplemental academic sources) and at least two additional academic sources (for example: GCU Library Databases for journal articles, philosophy dictionaries and encyclopedias) to inform your response. 
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.