1.) When looking at tragedies like the Columbine shooting a few years ago, many welfare state liberals argue that what this event tells us is the importance of stronger gun control legislation tokeep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. Communitarians argue, in contrast, that what this event shows us is the need for stronger families and cultural values so that every person has the strength of character not to lash out at others in violence. What do you think? Who seems more right here, welfare state liberals or communitarians? Why?

2.) One of the areas of disagreement between communitarians and libertarians is the value of a capitalist economy. Libertarians see the competition of the free market as the best mechanism for ensuring the highest quality and most innovative goods produced in the most efficient way and at the most competitive price--which is a real service to the community. Communitarians are concerned that, through the workings of the market, that too much emphasis is placed upon acquiring material goods rather than spiritual values, and that the free market may undermine important cultural and social values if not regulated.  What do you think about this dispute? Who seems more right? (Feel free to use specific examples in your answer, e.g., Nafta, support for farmers, etc.)

3.) One of aspects of historical conservatism that communitarianism carries on is the idea that traditions represent the valuable legacy of past generations and so, should be continued, with as little change as possible, in order to avoid "unintended consequences" associated with  radical changes. Others have made the argument that this mindset often leads to a kind of paralysis and an unwillingness to adapt to new technologies and innovations. The new medical technologies concerning reproduction (in vitro fertilization, cloning) are examples of technology that communitarians oppose, based on the unintended consequences of their use. What do you think? Should we allow the development of technology because of the potential benefits (libertarian position), should we regulate it carefully as we go along(w.s. lib position), or should we ban it as moving into areas which are better left unexplored (communitarian position)? Balancing out the potential benefits and misuses of this technology, who seems most right? Why?

4.) Some contemporary communitarians argue that in order to restore a stronger sense of community and a sense of obligation to others, all American citizens from 18-25 should be required to spend a year in mandatory national service. Service commitments could be fulfilled by working in soup kitchens, tutoring at risk students, building state parks, serving in the military, etc. In return, participants would receive vouchers to off-set college tuition costs.  Others argue that  this service should remain voluntary as it currently is and would object to a mandatory requirement as coercive  and too limiting on the individual negative liberty of those who would choose not to serve in this capacity. Where do you place yourself in this debate? Why?