WEEK 10 ASSIGNMENT
.docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Texas State University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
1310
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by BrigadierGiraffePerson1037
Week 10 Assignment
1. (100+ words) Emerging p. 124, Questions for Critical Reading 1:
The idea of a Factor X plays a central role in Fukuyama’s essay. As you reread this text, locate
quotations where Fukuyama defines this term and then provide a definition of the concept in
your own words.
In "Human Dignity," Fukuyama writes about the idea of a “Factor X” that each human possesses,
which cannot be explained by science. Fukuyama states, "Factor X cannot be reduced to the possession of moral choice, or reason, or language, or sociability, or sentience, or emotions, or consciousness, or any other quality” (117), suggesting that Factor X represents the complex interactions of various human attributes that define our nature further than simple characteristics. From the way Fukuyama writes about it, I believe Factor X is the epitome of the composite of human nature that separates us from animals and makes each one of us unique.
2. (100+ words) Emerging p. 124, Questions for Critical Reading 2:
Do humans have an “essence”? Locate passages from Fukuyama that support your analysis.
Does he think there is a human essence? What quotations make his position clear? You will need to reread his text closely and critically to determine his position.
Factor X is the human essence. It is what distinguishes humans from other beings as well as from each other. Our human essence is uniquely formed from the complex interplay of our various human attributes and characteristics. In the text, Fukuyama acknowledges the existence
of human essence and states, "Every member of the human species possesses a genetic endowment that allows him or her to become a whole human being, an endowment that distinguishes a human in essence from other types of creatures" (117), clearly implying his belief in this essence, which is essential in setting humans apart from other forms of life.
3. (100+ words) Emerging p. 261, Questions for Critical Reading 2:
What factors can change genes? Review the essay and pay close attention to places where
Moalem discusses elements that can change our genetic information. Knowing that our DNA can be affected by what we do, how might we change our behaviors?
Mutations and epigenetics are factors that can change genes in organisms, including humans. In
the essay, Moalem mentions that a study done at Oregon State University found that Spinach can be a factor for epigenetic changes in humans by influencing how cells fight back against carcinogens in cooked meat (254). With this information and power to change gene expression based upon our life conditions, it would be smart and beneficial to treat your body and mind right while also dieting in a way that effects epigenetics desirably in order to express the best of your genes in your offspring. 5. EasyWriter p. 359, Exercise 40.3 1-5:
First, underline the restrictive or nonrestrictive elements in the following sentences. Then, use
commas to set off the nonrestrictive elements in any of the sentences that contain such elements:
--Everyone who runs in the race
will get a T-shirt and a small backpack.
--Mammals that have pouches to protect their young
are known as marsupials.
--Wasabi, a root that is related to horseradish
originated in Japan.
--Plagiarism does occur on college campuses even though it is dishonest and illegal.
--The game will go into overtime if neither team scores within the next two minutes.
6. EasyWriter p. 360, Exercise 40.4 1-5:
In the following sentences, add any commas that are needed to set off words, phrases, or clauses in a series:
--I am looking forward to visiting Rome, Venice, and Florence.
--The moon circles the earth, the earth revolves around the sun, and the sun is just one star in the galaxy.
--The pelican landed in my yard, climbed up onto the deck, and admired its reflection in the
sliding glass doors.
--Lin-Manuel Miranda says the only Broadway shows he saw as a kid were Les Miz, Cats, and
Phantom.
--During the pandemic, people avoided public transportation, stopped traveling by air, and stayed away from even small gatherings.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help