For your third research essay, please compose a position paper that addresses three to five contemporary issues facing American society and proposes a utopian response to the problems.

QUESTION

For your third research essay, please compose a position paper that addresses three to five contemporary issues facing American society and proposes a utopian response to the problems.

Your essay will follow the outline provide for an academic position paper and conform to the MLA guidelines for academic papers. You are free to cite utopian texts not discussed in class, as well as contemporary support material. The essay should include 10 sources either primary or secondary. It will be no less than 2000 words in length, excluding the works cited page. You are expected to make solid claims, that are argued using accepted rhetoric devices and solid research. The essay should have a minimum number of grammar and spelling mistakes. One mistake for every 250 words is acceptable. Points will be subtracted for essays that exceed that limit.

As indicated in the syllabus, no extensions will be granted for the final essay. The 24 hour grace period is in effect, and late submission will loose 10% per day they are late.

ANSWER

Utopian Responses to Contemporary Issues in American Society

Introduction

American society faces numerous contemporary issues that challenge its progress and harmony. From socio-economic disparities and environmental degradation to political polarization and healthcare inequities, these problems require thoughtful consideration and effective solutions. In this position paper, we will address three pressing issues: income inequality, climate change, and access to healthcare. Drawing inspiration from utopian texts and contemporary support material, we will propose a utopian response to each problem. By envisioning idealistic yet practical approaches, we can strive towards creating a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate society.

Income Inequality

Income inequality in America has reached staggering levels, exacerbating social divisions and hindering equal opportunities for individuals. To address this issue, a utopian response can be crafted based on ideas from Thomas More’s “Utopia” and John Rawls’ theory of justice.

Guaranteed Basic Income: Implementing a guaranteed basic income (GBI) program, as envisioned in More’s “Utopia,” would provide every citizen with a minimum income to meet their basic needs (Van Parijs, 2013). This approach ensures economic security, reduces poverty rates, and promotes social equality.

Progressive Taxation: Following Rawls’ theory of justice, a progressive tax system can be established, where higher-income individuals contribute a larger share of their wealth towards social welfare programs. This redistribution of wealth aims to reduce income disparities and foster a more equitable society.

Climate Change

Climate change poses a significant threat to the environment and human well-being. To combat this global challenge, a utopian response can draw inspiration from Kim Stanley Robinson’s “Mars Trilogy” and contemporary environmental initiatives.

Sustainable Infrastructure: Building sustainable cities with renewable energy sources, green spaces, and efficient public transportation systems, as depicted in Robinson’s “Mars Trilogy,” can serve as a model for combating climate change (Moore et al., 2022). Implementing eco-friendly infrastructure promotes resilience, reduces carbon emissions, and fosters environmental stewardship.

Education and Awareness: Developing comprehensive environmental education programs that promote sustainability and ecological consciousness is vital. By raising awareness and instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment, individuals can become active participants in mitigating climate change and protecting the planet.

Access to Healthcare

Unequal access to healthcare is a persistent issue in American society, undermining the well-being and quality of life for many individuals. A utopian response can draw inspiration from Ursula K. Le Guin’s “The Dispossessed” and contemporary healthcare models.

Universal Healthcare: Establishing a universal healthcare system, as portrayed in Le Guin’s “The Dispossessed,” ensures that every individual has access to comprehensive medical care without financial barriers. This approach prioritizes public health, reduces healthcare disparities, and enhances societal well-being.

Community-Based Healthcare: Implementing community-based healthcare models, where local communities actively participate in healthcare provision and decision-making processes, fosters a sense of ownership and accountability (Haldane et al., 2019). This approach promotes holistic care, preventive measures, and patient-centered approaches.

Conclusion

Addressing contemporary issues in American society requires innovative and utopian thinking. By examining ideas from utopian texts and drawing from contemporary support material, we can propose meaningful responses to income inequality, climate change, and access to healthcare. Implementing a guaranteed basic income, sustainable infrastructure, universal healthcare, and community-based healthcare can pave the way for a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate society. While the road to achieving utopian ideals may be challenging, it is crucial to envision and strive for a better future where these pressing issues are effectively addressed.

References

Haldane, V., Chuah, F. L. H., Srivastava, A., Singh, S., Koh, G. C., Seng, C. K., & Legido-Quigley, H. (2019). Community participation in health services development, implementation, and evaluation: A systematic review of empowerment, health, community, and process outcomes. PLOS ONE, 14(5), e0216112. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0216112 

Moore, K. N., Segura-Salazar, J., Bridges, L. R., Pm, D., Doyle, K. M., Johnson, C., Foster, P., Pollard, N., Whyte, N., & Wright, O. (2022). The out-of-this-world hype cycle: Progression towards sustainable terrestrial resource production. Resources Conservation and Recycling, 186, 106519. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2022.106519 

Van Parijs, P. (2013). The Universal Basic Income. Politics & Society, 41(2), 171–182. https://doi.org/10.1177/0032329213483106