In Plato’s Republic, Socrates has a dialogue with a number of persons. In the excerpt, the “Ring of Gyges,” Glaucon argues that the practice of justice arises only in society, i.e., where there is fear of punishment. In your opinion, does it make sense to act in an ethical manner or to do the right thing outside of the dictates of society? In other words, if a person could be certain not only that an action resulting in personal benefit would not be discovered but also that if this action were discovered, no punishing consequences would follow, then would there be any reason for that person to act morally? Are there universal moral principles that are right for all persons at all times?
Content: 50%
Does your essay contain important, relevant, and/or interesting arguments? Do you support your thesis with facts, research, and compelling theoretical discussions? Do you incorporate the assigned readings and other sources to support your arguments and opinions?
Organization: 25%
Does your essay contain a well-written introduction, a body, and a conclusion? Do your arguments follow logically within paragraphs and throughout the essay? Is your conclusion supported by the arguments and evidence you offer in the body of the essay? Do you explain in a logical and compelling manner why you have come to this particular conclusion?
Conventions: 25%
Is your essay well-written and free of grammatical, spelling, punctuation, and typographical errors? Does it display sentence fluency and appropriate word choice? Does it follow basic formatting guidelines?