How is ethics related to knowledge in sociology?

Position Paper 1. (Ethics and Knowledge)

InstructionsFor the assignment, I would like you to take a position on one (or two) of the assigned readings for the first section of the course (Ethics and Knowledge), and write a well argued, critical essay of around 1000 to 1200 words (12 point font, in Times New Roman, 1.5 spacing, with a Works Cited section at the end).For your paper, you are required to take a position on one (or two) of the philosophers that we have examined so far in the course. What this means is that you can write your paper on one of the following philosophers:1. Plato (The Allegory of the Cave)2. Epicurus (Letter to Menoeceus)3. Kierkegaard (Fear and Trembling)Or, you can compare two of these philosophers’ ethical theories:1. Plato and Epicurus2. Epicurus and Kierkegaard3. Kierkegaard and Plato   The main point of the assignment is that you take a position in your essay on the reading(s).From the texts that we have examined, clearly and accurately describe the ethical theories of the philosopher (or philosophers) that you have decided to write about.Also, tell me why you agree or disagree with the ethical theory(or theories) in question? (You may agree with some aspects of a philosopher’s ethics, but disagree with others. Or you may entirely agree or disagree with their main ethical theory).Also in your paper, argue for the applicability (or inapplicability) of the ethical theory (or theories) in the world today, and in our contemporary society.Above all, take a clear argumentative position, and make this clear in your essay.Suggested Questions and Topics:As mentioned in the assignment description, you are free to develop your own original topic for the essay, as it relates to the philosophers and the readings we have examined in this first part of the course.However, here are two suggested topics that may also help guide you with the assignment:1. (Plato and Epicurus)Both Plato and Epicurus write about the “good” and the “good life” in their writings, specifically in the Republic (380 BC), and Letter to Menoeceus (341-270 BC), respectively. How do these terms relate to each philosopher’s ethical theories? Also, how does each philosopher think we should live the most ethical life? How should we act? And what is the purpose of life for each philosopher? Are there any similarities or differences between them? And most importantly, do you agree or disagree with them?(Use examples from the text to support your arguments).2. (Kierkegaard and Plato)How do Kierkegaard’s and Plato’s ethical theories relate, if at all? What is the main aim of ethics in Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” in the Republic (380 BC)? And also, what does Kierkegaard have to say about ethics in Fear and Trembling (1843)? What is the highest purpose in life for each philosopher? Are there any similarities or differences between the stories both philosophers recount? (The “Allegory of the Cave,” and the “Story of Abraham”). Most importantly, do you agree or disagree with each philosopher? And can you apply their ideas about ethics to your own life and the world today?   (Use examples from the text to support your arguments).