1C Essay #4 Option for Spring Semester 2009: Are We Slaves to Our Biological Impulse for Consumerism or Are We Morally Responsible for Suppressing Our Consumer Avarice?

In a previous writing option (CLICK HERE FOR LINK), McMahon provides several links that suggest our consumer behavior is biologically determined, which would suggest a lack of accountability. 

But many argue that these biological theories conveniently remove our personal responsibility for our choices. For example, Peter Singer's "What Should a Billionaire Give--And What Should You?" argues that we must strip ourselves bare of our lavish spending--instead using our resources to aid the dying and the poor. Such charity is, Singer maintains, a moral imperative regardless of our biological hardwiring. 

In a persuasive essay, agree or disagree with Singer. Defend your position with at least 4 mapping components. 

For another source, you can consult McMahon's critique of Singer. 

Of course, you can agree or disagree with my critique. I don't care. A grades are given based on quality of exposition and are not contingent on students "drinking McMahon's Kool-Aid."

Thank you, Fatou, for reminding me of this assignment.