AFS 161: Ethics in Traditional African Society

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What does the Greek word 'ethos' mean?

Customs, conduct, tradition, habit (correct)

Virtues and obligations

Standards of morality

Right and wrong

What is one of the aspects of ethics that imposes obligations on individuals?

To refrain from behaviours such as rape and murder (correct)

To prioritize personal interests over collective benefits

To uphold social norms and conventions

To promote individual freedom

Which of the following is NOT a virtue included in ethical standards?

Ambition (correct)

Community

Honesty

Compassion

What is the primary focus of ethics in relation to human behavior?

Well-founded standards of right and wrong Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between ethics and morality?

Ethics is a subset of morality Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of traditional African moral codes?

To regulate the relationship between individuals and the community Signup and view all the answers

According to E.J. Udokang, what is the central value system of traditional African societies?

Code of ethics Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a society that lacks norms or moral ways of enforcing good conduct?

Chaos Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of traditional African societies?

Deep sense of right and wrong Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of traditional moral codes in African societies?

To promote social order and harmony Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of African communities, towns, and villages?

System of morals preserved in customs and traditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism that maintains social order and stability in African societies?

Observance of traditional ethical principles and moral values Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of violating traditional ethical principles and moral values in African societies?

Disorder and social dislocation Signup and view all the answers

According to Tempels, what is the social dimension of morality in African societies?

Morality is seen in the social context Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the dominant values and norms of a cultural group and the stability of that group?

The dominant values and norms of a cultural group enjoy a high degree of stability Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of evil acts in African societies, according to Tempels?

Evil acts are anti-social and have adverse effects on the whole community Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of social order and stability in African societies, according to Ozumba and Opoku?

Social order and stability are of utmost importance in African societies Signup and view all the answers

What is etiquette primarily concerned with?

Conforming to societal conventions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following words is considered unpardonable for a woman to call a man in Ghanaian society?

Fool Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of seniority in age in traditional Ghanaian greetings?

It is irrelevant in determining who greets whom Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a man exchanging blows with a woman who has called him a 'fool' in Ghanaian society?

He is seen as a bully (woman fighter) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of gestures like pouting the mouth and leaving one's thumb standing in traditional Ghanaian society?

They are more abusive than words Signup and view all the answers

Who is expected to greet first in a traditional Ghanaian society?

The person who is visiting Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of taboos in ensuring social order and stability?

To enforce religious and social injunctions Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of moral values in personal and professional lives?

They help to build good relationships Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of the word 'taboo'?

From the Polynesian language Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of moral values in an individual's character?

They reflect an individual's character and spirituality Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of moral values in the community?

To ensure the sanctity and protection of human morality Signup and view all the answers

Why are moral values essential in life?

Because they help individuals distinguish between good and bad Signup and view all the answers