Whatever the answer to essential questions of society and individual human beings may be, education is surely its major component. But what would education be without its ethical dimension? Many of us believe them to be inseparable. That is why this Prize in Ethics Essay Contest was established in 1989. Thousands of students from hundreds of colleges and universities across the nation have participated. Through their writing, they explored their concerns and beliefs, their fears and their hopes. While we suggest relevant topics each year, applicants are encouraged to choose any subject they feel strongly about, provided it is related to the domain of ethics. Registered undergraduate students at accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States are eligible to enter the contest. Students who are studying abroad are eligible, as long as they are registered as full-time juniors or seniors at their home schools in the U.S. In 3,000 to 4,000 words, students are encouraged to raise questions, single out issues and identify dilemmas. Essays may be written in the formal or informal voice, but most importantly, an individual voice should be evident. Essay must be the original, unpublished work however can be a paper that was turned in for class. Only one essay per student per year may be submitted. Use of writing that is generated or aided by Artificial Intelligence is strictly prohibited. If determined AI was utilized, this may result in disqualification. Please visit the award's website for more information.