Here are the topics for your research paper. Choose one of the following:
Exotic Pets
Though largely illegal, the exotic species trade has
flourished in recent years. In it, individuals who can afford it can purchase any
number of exotic species (e.g. tigers, snakes, monkeys) for use as domestic
pets. This often results in dangerous outcomes, including the death or injury
of the owner and/or pet. It has also had a devastating effect on our environment.
For example, Florida’s Everglades is reeling from the (unlawful) introduction
of Burmese pythons, which have wreaked havoc on its sensitive ecosystem. What should
be done to curb this problem? Explore the implications of importing exotic species
as pets.
Invasive Species
All around the world, and for many centuries, humans
traveling to new lands have purposefully—or inadvertently—introduced non-native
species of animals. In some cases, such introductions have a neutral effect
(e.g. the European introduction of poultry to North America), but most often
they negatively impact an environment (e.g. zebra mussels in the Great Lakes). In
fact, many regions are attempting to combat so-called “invasive species” in
hopes of reclaiming and restoring native environments. Profile three areas
around the world dealing with the consequences of an invasive species.
Animal Experimentation
The practice of scientific experiments on animals for
human benefit is centuries long and has helped yield many valuable advancements,
but at what cost? What are the ethical implications of animal testing? Do scientific
advancements outweigh the moral rights of animals? And if it is to be accepted,
should all practices be allowed, or should there be limits placed on some types
of experimentation? Finally, does animal experimentation remain a viable
method for experimentation? Should 21st century science continue to engage in
the practice of utilizing animals for experimentation?
The Illegal Wildlife Trade
All around the world, several illicit markets exist
specializing in the trade of endangered species, such as elephants and tigers. In
the illegal wildlife trade, an elaborate and clandestine network of poachers,
dealers, and buyers support a multi-million dollar industry. They trade in everything
from exotic animals to ivory to overharvested or protected fish. The impact of
such markets has been widespread, including dramatically reducing the numbers
of several species, such as the rhino. How dire is the situation around the world
as a result of the illegal wildlife trade? What can and is being done to combat
these networks?
Industrial Livestock
Production
Today’s industrial
livestock production feeds more people than at any time in human history. Additionally,
large-scale farms, operated by corporate interests, also dominate the American livestock
industry. But what issues does the industrialization of cattle, poultry, and
swine raise? What are their impacts on the environment? Do these farms’
practices pose any threat to societal health? Do any viable alternatives to industrial
livestock production exist? Highlight three issues related to contemporary industrial
livestock production.
The Cetacean Trade
The trade of cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) is
amongst the most profitable animal markets in the world. Cetacean transactions happen
through an intricate, though often shadowy, marketplace designed to match these
animals with anyone who can afford them. Most recently, SeaWorld has come under
fire for its purchase of cetaceans through notorious purveyors, such as those
in Taiji, Japan. What have been the effects of the cetacean trade? Can
cetaceans be traded humanely? Or, should the trade be banned outright? Explore the
inner workings of the cetacean trade.
Requirements:
- Minimum 12 pages in length
- MLA Style, including parenthetical citation
- Minimum of 6 outside sources—at least 3 from peer-reviewed academic texts
- Works cited page
Include in your research paper:
- A thesis outlining a clear argument
- An deep analysis of your chosen subject matter
- A conclusion that illustrates an understanding of your subject matter
Due:
Week 13: Week
of Mo 4.13—RESEARCH PAPER THESIS
Week 14: Week
of Mo 4.20—RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE
Week 15: Week
of Mo 4.27—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 3; BRING 2 COPIES)
Week 16: Week
of Mo 5.4—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 6; BRING 1 COPY)
Week 17: Week
of Mo 5.11—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 9; BRING 1 COPY)
Week 18: Week of
Mo 5.18 (Finals Week)—RESEARCH PAPER (FINAL DRAFT)
Sec 69—
Week 13: Week
of Mo 4.13—RESEARCH PAPER THESIS
Week 14: Week
of Mo 4.20—RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE
Week 15: Week
of Mo 4.27—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 4; BRING 2 COPIES)
Week 16: Week
of Mo 5.4—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 7; BRING 1 COPY)
Week 17: Week
of Mo 5.11—(Finals Week)—RESEARCH PAPER (FINAL DRAFT)
