Question 1

Thick and Thin. Conceptual devices that are used to convey a message of how complex a meaning may be. A situation may be viewed as thin when it is described as good, or with another simple adjective. This is a bare bones type of response that is universal in its meaning. Many cultures see this adjective (good) in a positive manner. Thin devices tend to be consistent throughout many societies and cultures. Starting with thin topics to fully understand thick ones may be a good approach. Thick on the other hand is described in more complex terminology. In order to fully depict a situation, one must fully understand it. Without understanding, there is confusion. Descriptive adjectives such as strength, depict that there is more vivid detail in the situation we are talking about. Appiah interestingly brings morality into play and describes morality as thick. Usually one would start at a thin concept and move to a thicker one as it is understood. But, Appiah says that this is not the case with morality. Morality is already complex. It requires a thick understanding. He implies that one should pick apart thin concepts in morality that relate to the thick concepts. This would help one understand. Interestingly enough, morality is 'extra thick.' It changes within each society. This causes confusion, and hinders the breakdown into thinner concepts. This in turn causes a lack of understanding. Morality is the same as say respect. Different societies and cultures view respect in different ways. In the United States, we may label someone as Mr Doe to show respect. In Japan however, one should bow before speaking, especially in business deals. This complex idea of respect becomes harder to understand the more you branch out from your own understanding.