Problem of poverty

For the first essay assignment, I am asking you to write about the problem of poverty. Return to Study Guide 2 and the four arguments presented there. Either you agree with Singer that charitable donations are obligatory (morally required) or you disagree with Singer and believe that charitable donations are supererogatory (good to do), but not obligatory. If you agree with Singer, explain what you think is wrong with the first argument in the study guide. (The second argument has already been critically discussed.) If you disagree with Singer, explain what you think is wrong with one of his two arguments.

The purpose of this essay is to see that you know how to raise a relevant objection to an argument. This is an essential critical thinking skill. I should emphasize that a relevant objection to an argument is not that the conclusion is false. If the conclusion is false, there must be something wrong with the argument leading to that conclusion: either it has a false premise, or the reasoning is flawed, or both. So, a relevant objection to an argument targets one of the premises or the reasoning, not the conclusion.

To receive full credit for this assignment, please follow the instructions below.

1. Your essay should be no less than 200 words and no more than 300 words. This is a short essay, so be concise and to the point.
2. Directly address the essay question and write with clarity and organization.
3. Include in your identifying information the days and times that your class meets.