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Questions and Answers
What does genetics or genetic engineering primarily allow us to do?
What is the primary concern of the Luddites in the early 19th century?
Which of the following best defines Luddism in contemporary terms?
What can nanotechnology specifically do?
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What aspect of robotics is highlighted in the context of emerging technologies?
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What does Aristotle consider to be the highest good for human beings?
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Which aspect of human nature differentiates humans from other animals according to Aristotle?
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What term does Aristotle use to describe the application of knowledge in practical situations?
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What types of knowledge does Aristotle emphasize as important for human flourishing?
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According to Aristotle, how can one attain a virtuous life?
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How many virtuous traits does Aristotle propose one must possess to flourish?
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What connects all virtues according to Aristotle?
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What is a defining feature of the virtue of character as per Aristotle's philosophy?
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What term do ancient Greek philosophers use to describe a flourishing life?
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According to Plato, what is NOT necessary for human flourishing?
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How can one develop virtue according to Plato?
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Which of the following is considered one of the four cardinal virtues by Plato?
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What role does reason play in Plato's concept of flourishing?
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According to Plato, pursuing which virtue leads to greater efficacy and self-mastery?
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What is the consequence of lacking temperance in a person's life, based on Plato's views?
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Which philosopher believed that happiness is achieved through eudaimonia?
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What distinguishes modern technology from older forms of technology according to Heidegger?
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Which term is used by Heidegger to describe how technology transforms the world?
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What is the essence of technology derived from the concept of techne?
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How is the value of an object, such as an airplane, determined?
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What characterizes an ethical dilemma?
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What is the first step in approaching an ethical dilemma?
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Which process is essential to decision making in an ethical dilemma?
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Why is it important to evaluate the consequences in ethical decision making?
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Which statement best describes human flourishing?
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What is a key component of human flourishing?
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Why is human flourishing described as an intrinsic good?
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According to the modern concept of human flourishing, what is required for an individual to flourish?
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How does the modern understanding of human flourishing differ from the views of Greek philosophers?
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Which of the following best represents 'objective goods' in human flourishing?
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What role do science and technology play in human flourishing?
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Which of the following is a positive impact of technology on human flourishing?
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Study Notes
Human Flourishing
- Ancient Greek philosophers defined a flourishing life as eudaimonia, often equated with happiness.
- Plato believed eudaimonia is a natural human desire, achieved through moral thought and virtuous action.
- For Plato, external goods such as wealth or fame do not contribute to flourishing.
- To develop virtues, Plato emphasized examining oneself and surrounding environment, mastering reason over desires, and living according to the four cardinal virtues: wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice.
Aristotle and Eudaimonia
- Aristotle defined eudaimonia as the highest good for human beings. He believed it involved fully actualizing human potential, which comprises four aspects: physical, emotional, social, and rational.
- Intellectual virtues were crucial for flourishing according to Aristotle, achieved through the pursuit of knowledge and its application in practical situations.
- Aristotle identified two types of knowledge: theoretical (understanding principles) and practical (applying principles). He believed that both were essential for flourishing.
- Virtues of character were equally important for flourishing, and Aristotle emphasized phronesis (practical wisdom) as a key connecting factor.
- Virtue, for Aristotle, is a character trait allowing individuals to flourish and is cultivated through education and habit.
Modern Concept of Human Flourishing
- Flourishing is considered intrinsically worthwhile, not merely a means to happiness.
- It involves optimally utilizing potential and capabilities, which vary based on individual circumstances.
Criteria for Human Flourishing
- Whole life perspective is crucial, considering the individual's life as a totality.
- Dynamic state requires continuous development and self-improvement for continued flourishing.
- Objective goods, including good social relationships, are universally beneficial and contribute to flourishing.
Role of Science and Technology in Human Flourishing
- Scientific discoveries enable humanity to achieve intellectual virtues.
- Technological progress has significantly improved human lives by:
- Making work easier and more efficient
- Providing entertainment and enjoyment
- Enhancing health and safety
- Addressing social issues
- Facilitating the development of human talent and abilities
- Modern technology's "revealing" nature challenges our understanding of the world, unlike older technologies.
- Modern technology transforms the world into "standing reserve," where value is assigned based on its usefulness.
- Heidegger's "good for" philosophy: Objects are considered "good" only in relation to their usefulness for humans.
Ethical Dilemmas
- Ethical dilemmas arise when two possible options are not clearly ethically justifiable.
- Solving dilemmas requires:
- Recognizing the ethical issues involved
- Decision-making based on facts, values, and principles
- Critical analysis of potential consequences
- Making a decision and evaluating its impact.
Emerging Technologies and Ethical Concerns
- Bill Joy highlighted genetics, nanotechnology, and robotics as potentially concerning technologies.
- These technologies promise remarkable advancements:
- Genetics: reprogramming human biology
- Nanotechnology: manipulating matter at the atomic level
- Robotics: creating super-human intelligence
Luddites and Luddism
- Luddites were textile workers who protested against machinery in the early 19th century.
- They opposed new technologies, primarily due to concerns about wages and working conditions.
- Luddism today encompasses individuals who oppose modern technologies or those unfamiliar with them.
- It represents a resistance to technological advancement driven by concerns about potential negative consequences.
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