1. In this essay, you should briefly (and accurately) describe the Experience Machine (what
is it, what is it offering, etc.). Explain why Nozick says that “plugging into the machine
is a kind of suicide” (34). As you explain this, be sure to explain what Nozick takes to be
the connection between character traits and personhood. Explain why Nozick suggests
that a person in the machine would have no character traits. Then, you should critically
evaluate his conclusion: is it really true that a person hooked up to the machine could
not be brave (or cowardly), intelligent (or dumb), etc? Feel free to use any of the
examples we discussed in class (Sam the firefighter, the actual soldier who throws
herself on a “grenade,” etc.), or use your own.
2. Kazez argues that a life without progress is not a life that was as good as it could have
been. Explain what she means by this (and why she says it). How much progress does
she think is necessary? Why would she say that a person who starts and ends life well
didn’t have the best possible life? Critically evaluate her stance, using an example to
illustrate both your and her points.
3. Why does Kazez argue that autonomy is necessary for a good life? (Be sure to define
“autonomy”.) Why does she suggest that we value autonomy even when it doesn’t lead
to increased happiness? If you could be assured that you could be happier if you were to
hand over all control to another person (that person would now make all decisions for
you), would you do so? Explain why Kazez would suggest that that would be a mistake,
and then, in light of your answer, explain why you agree or disagree with her.
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