Branches of Moral Philosophy and Conventional Morality
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Questions and Answers

What does conventional morality refer to?

  • The widely accepted rules and principles within a culture (correct)
  • Moral views that are inherently logical and rational
  • A universal set of moral principles applicable to all cultures
  • Moral standards derived solely from religious beliefs

What assumption about conventional morality is made in the content?

  • Conventional morality applies uniformly across all cultures
  • Conventional morality is always accurate and truthful
  • Conventional morality can sometimes be morally mistaken (correct)
  • Conventional morality has no impact on individual behavior

How is conventional morality characterized in relation to cultural differences?

  • It differs drastically from one society to another (correct)
  • It is strictly based on religious teachings
  • It is identical across all cultures and societies
  • It is only applicable to modern cultures

Which example illustrates a difference in conventional morality?

<p>The practice of public tipping in United States restaurants (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a basis for the establishment of conventional morality, according to the content?

<p>Inherent moral truths (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's stance toward the notion that conventional morality is sufficient?

<p>The author is skeptical that conventional morality is all there is (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the discussion of morality, what is the author primarily critical of?

<p>Relying on conventional wisdom for moral guidance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental idea does conventional morality hinge on?

<p>Broad societal acceptance and shared beliefs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary challenges faced by those arguing for the existence of God?

<p>Providing clear and undeniable evidence of God's existence (A), Interpreting sacred texts literally without contradictions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which point is NOT considered a condition that must be met for theists to seek divine guidance?

<p>The scripture must have a clear prohibition on abortion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinction is made regarding morality in the content?

<p>Conventional and critical morality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do theists face difficulties when interpreting sacred texts?

<p>There are often conflicting interpretations and treatments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What philosophical concepts can aid in understanding morality, according to the content?

<p>Value theory, normative ethics, and metaethics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which moral philosophy is critiqued for its reliance on divine authority?

<p>Divine command theory (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be justified by theists when selecting a particular religious source?

<p>The interpretation of its moral guidance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In discussions of morality, what is said to be more challenging than simply positing that morality is based on religion?

<p>Establishing a clear definition of morality (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about God's desire for nonbelievers in moral understanding?

<p>God would want nonbelievers to recognize fundamental moral truths (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge do religious believers face when attempting to derive moral guidance from sacred texts?

<p>The presence of morally troubling advice within the texts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Divine Command Theory suggest about God's decisions on morality?

<p>God's choices entirely determine what is right and wrong. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key implication if God issued commands based on arbitrary decisions?

<p>God would be seen as morally capricious. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, why is it argued that God must have reasons for His moral laws?

<p>To ensure His commands are not arbitrary. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If God recognizes torture as immoral, what does this suggest about the nature of morality?

<p>Some actions have inherent moral value independent of divine commands. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Divine Perfection Argument claim about God and morality?

<p>A morally perfect God could not issue commands for immoral acts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role could God play in morality if He is not the author of moral law?

<p>God could serve as an infallible reporter of moral truths. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical challenge arises for those seeking divine guidance in morality?

<p>Identifying a reliable source of religious wisdom. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Argument from Religious Authority, what premise supports the moral authority of the Bible?

<p>God authored the Bible directly. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion can be drawn if God supports a moral law that allows for harmful actions?

<p>God must be imperfect as a moral being. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of moral actions does the content suggest God recognizes?

<p>The inherent nature of actions as good or bad. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the content suggest about the relationship between God's commands and human ethical understanding?

<p>God's commands can enhance human understanding of ethics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a command from God is considered arbitrary, what quality does this imply about God's nature?

<p>God has imperfection in moral judgment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which reasoning supports that morality exists independent of God?

<p>God acknowledges the pain caused by certain actions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion follows from the statement 'God sees that kindness and compassion are good'?

<p>There are objective moral truths recognized by God. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does independent, critical morality lack?

<p>Origin in social agreements (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which branch of moral philosophy addresses the question of what makes right actions right?

<p>Normative ethics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should skepticism about morality not be regarded as the default view?

<p>It disregards ethical assumptions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a moral assumption regarding legal standards?

<p>Legal actions can be morally mistaken. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason children bear less moral responsibility than adults?

<p>They are less capable of understanding options. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that justice is a very important moral good?

<p>Justice is essential to moral theories. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the default position in ethics regarding harm to others?

<p>Deliberate harm requires justification. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when treating equals?

<p>Relevance in the treatment of similar individuals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of ethics addresses if moral principles can be true?

<p>Metaethics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the claim 'self-interest isn’t the only ethical consideration' suggest?

<p>Morality may require setting aside personal interests. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for the justification of deliberately harming others?

<p>A powerful justification. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following claims emphasizes moral fallibility?

<p>No one is wholly wise in moral matters. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean that morality must respect our limitations?

<p>Moral standards must be attainable. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is essential for a morality worth considering?

<p>Importance of justice and fairness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception about laws and morality is highlighted?

<p>Morality sometimes forbids polite behavior. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key distinction between morality and the norms of self-interest?

<p>Morality can require sacrifices for the sake of ethics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the relationship between morality and tradition?

<p>Morality can sometimes necessitate breaking from tradition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical assumption does the Divine Command Theory rely on?

<p>Morality must be created by an authority figure. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which question reflects Socrates' inquiry regarding morality related to divine commands?

<p>Do gods determine morality through commands? (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can morality and law differ according to the discussions presented?

<p>Some immoral acts are not prohibited by law. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What notion regarding morality is contested in the discussion?

<p>Morality can conflict with personal goals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What implication does the longevity of a tradition have for its moral standing?

<p>Time alone does not prove a practice to be moral. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might individuals reject the idea that morality is created by God?

<p>God may not exist, undermining the authority of moral commands. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the assertion 'morality can sometimes require us to sacrifice our well-being' imply?

<p>Ethics may conflict with personal gains in certain situations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one issue raised by the Divine Command Theory?

<p>It depends entirely on the existence of God. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What rationale do some individuals use to reject the Divine Command Theory?

<p>Moral principles can exist independently of divine beliefs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge is hinted at regarding ethical egoism in the context of morality?

<p>It can sometimes contradict the essence of morality. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Conventional Morality

Widely accepted rules and principles governing behavior within a culture or society, based on shared values, beliefs and norms.

Critical Morality

The process of critically examining conventional morality, using independent moral standards to evaluate its merits and shortcomings.

Moral Standards

The principles and rules that guide our individual actions and judgments about right and wrong.

Problem of Conventional Morality

The idea that social standards, regardless of popularity or tradition, could be morally flawed.

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Independent Morality

A system of moral thought that is independent of popular opinion or cultural norms, allowing for objective evaluation of moral principles.

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Popularity ≠ Truth

The assumption that the truth of a moral view is not guaranteed by its widespread acceptance within a society or culture.

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Moral Evaluation

The idea that moral standards can be evaluated and critiqued based on their logic, consistency, and ability to promote good outcomes.

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Moral Scrutiny

The act of examining the origins and justifications of conventional moral beliefs, questioning whether they are based on sound reasoning or flawed assumptions.

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Independent, Critical Morality

The idea that morality exists independently of social agreements, beliefs, or prejudices, and can serve as a standard for judging conventional morality.

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Normative Ethics

A branch of moral philosophy that explores the nature of good and bad, right and wrong, and what constitutes a good life.

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Metaethics

A branch of moral philosophy that examines the nature and status of moral claims and judgments. It investigates the meaning of moral terms, the truth of moral statements, and the sources of moral knowledge.

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Value Theory

A branch of moral philosophy that examines the nature of value, including questions about well-being, happiness, and what is worth pursuing for its own sake.

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Moral Criticism of Law and Tradition

The belief that neither laws nor customs hold absolute authority on what is morally right or wrong. Actions can be legal or traditional but still morally wrong.

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Everyone is Morally Fallible

The understanding that everyone can make moral mistakes, highlighting the need for continuous learning and evaluation of our ethical views.

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The Value of Friendship

The intrinsic value of friendship. Friendships enhance the quality of life and contribute to well-being.

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Morality Respects Limitations

The idea that morality cannot demand the impossible. Moral standards that are impossible to meet are illegitimate.

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Children and Moral Responsibility

The principle that children bear less moral responsibility than adults because they lack the understanding and abilities to make informed moral decisions.

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Justice is Important

Justice is a fundamental moral good, and any moral theory that disregards it is flawed.

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Justification for Harming Others

Deliberately causing harm to others requires a strong justification. The default position in ethics is to avoid harm.

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Equals Ought to Be Treated Equally

The principle that those who are similar in relevant respects should be treated alike. Racism and sexism violate this principle, as they create unequal treatment based on irrelevant factors.

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Beyond Self-Interest

Self-interest is important, but it should not be the only ethical consideration. Sometimes, morality requires us to prioritize the well-being of others over our own.

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Agony is Bad

Excruciating physical or emotional pain is inherently bad. Causing such suffering requires a very strong justification.

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Might Doesn't Make Right

Power does not justify actions. Just because someone can get away with something does not make it morally acceptable.

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Free and Informed Consent

Free and informed consent can prevent ethical violations. If someone freely agrees to something, even if it leads to harm, it's not a rights violation.

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Divine Command Theory Problem

The idea that God exists and provides moral guidance through sacred texts, but several hurdles must be overcome to justify this claim.

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Challenges to Divine Guidance

The claim that God's existence and communication with humanity must be proven, as well as the selection of a specific sacred text as the source of moral wisdom.

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Interpreting Sacred Texts

The process of interpreting sacred texts, where multiple interpretations exist, and believers must choose and justify their own.

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Plausible Starting Points for Morality

A set of starting points for moral thinking, which can be used as a basis for developing a moral system.

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Morality vs. Other Normative Systems

Distinguishing morality from other normative systems, such as law, etiquette, self-interest, and tradition.

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Normative system

A set of norms, standards for behavior, ideals to strive for, and rules to abide by.

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What defines a normative system?

A system that governs how we ought to behave, including standards of behavior, ideals, and rules.

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What makes a morality worth its name?

A set of principles that focus on justice, fairness, kindness, and reasonableness.

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Is morality the same as law?

Moral principles are distinct from legal requirements. Some immoral acts may be legal, and some illegal acts may not be immoral.

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Is morality the same as etiquette?

Good manners and etiquette aren't the same as moral conduct. Moral principles sometimes require us to act outside of social grace, like when someone threatens your loved ones.

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Is morality always aligned with self-interest?

Self-interest may sometimes lead to immoral behavior, and ethical actions might not always benefit you. People may get ahead by betraying others or breaking the rules.

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Is tradition always morally right?

A long-standing tradition does not automatically make it morally right. Morality can require breaking with the past, like advocating for the abolition of slavery.

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What is the Divine Command Theory?

The belief that morality depends entirely on God's commands. Actions are right because God commands them, and they are wrong because God forbids them.

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What is the Euthyphro Dilemma?

A question that explores whether God commands actions because they are right, or are actions right simply because God commands them.

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What is a major problem with the Divine Command Theory?

A major issue with the Divine Command Theory is its dependence on God's existence. If God does not exist, the theory itself loses its foundation.

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Why is the assumption about a creator of morality problematic?

The Divine Command Theory relies on the assumption that morality requires a creator, someone with authority to establish moral laws. This assumption is not universally accepted.

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Can we treat people equally without treating them the same?

Treating people equally does not necessarily mean treating them in exactly the same way. Individuals have unique needs and circumstances that should be acknowledged.

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Why is morality important?

Ethical principles are fundamental to the way we live our lives. They guide our actions, shape our relationships, and define our values.

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How do we navigate moral complexities?

Morality requires careful reflection and consideration of various viewpoints. It involves weighing different ethical principles and resolving conflicts.

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Divine Command Theory

The idea that morality is entirely determined by God's commands, meaning actions are right only because God commands them.

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Moral Neutrality

A belief that nothing is inherently right or wrong until God declares it so.

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The Divine Perfection Argument

The argument that a morally perfect God couldn't create a morality that requires evil acts, implying the Divine Command Theory is flawed.

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God as Moral Reporter

The idea that God doesn't create morality but simply reveals what is already right or wrong, acting as a moral guide.

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Argument from Religious Authority

The argument that moral authority comes from sacred texts like the Bible, suggesting that its teachings determine morality.

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Problem of Selecting a Religious Source

The difficulty of choosing from various religious texts, each with potentially conflicting moral teachings.

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Problem of Interpreting Religious Texts

The challenge of accurately interpreting and applying the teachings found in chosen sacred texts.

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Omniscience

A being with perfect knowledge, seeing all things in their entirety.

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Arbitrary Divine Choices

The idea that God's choices have no basis or reason, making them seem unpredictable and whimsical.

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Intrinsic Morality

The concept that actions have inherent moral qualities independent of God's commands. For example, torture is wrong because it is painful, not because God forbids it.

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Reasons vs. Commands

The argument that if God's commands are based on reasons, those reasons, not the commands themselves, explain why actions are right or wrong.

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Divine Insight

The idea that God's commands regarding right and wrong are based on divine insight, understanding what is intrinsically good or bad.

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God's Moral Authority

The possibility that God could have commanded actions that are considered morally wrong in our current understanding.

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Divine Command vs. Moral Imperfection

The idea that God could have commanded us to do harm, undermining the notion of God's moral perfection.

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Secular Morality

The understanding of morality without relying on religious beliefs or divine authority.

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Study Notes

Conventional vs. Critical Morality

  • Conventional morality is a system of accepted rules and principles within a culture or society. It's based on societal norms and used to judge actions and motivations.
  • Conventional morality varies among societies. Examples given include differing views on women's roles in Saudi Arabia and Denmark, and tipping customs in the US compared to other places.
  • Critical morality is separate from societal norms. It aims to evaluate conventional morality for accuracy, independent of widespread acceptance. Possible sources of error in conventional morality include mistakes, irrationality, and bias..

Branches of Moral Philosophy

  • Value theory concerns the good life, worthwhile pursuits, happiness, and well-being.
  • Normative ethics focuses on fundamental duties, right actions, virtues and vices, and the justification of actions.
  • Metaethics investigates the status of moral claims, the truth of ethical theories, and the possibility and nature of moral wisdom.

Moral Starting Points

  • Laws and traditions are not automatically moral. Ethical judgments can critically assess them.
  • Humans are prone to moral errors. No one is perfectly ethical.
  • Friendship has inherent value.
  • Morality cannot demand the impossible.
  • Children have less moral responsibility than adults due to limitations in understanding and decision-making.
  • Justice is a significant ethical good.
  • Deliberate harm requires justification.
  • Equals should be treated equally.
  • Self-interest isn't the sole ethical concern.
  • Agony is inherently bad.
  • Power does not equate to morality.
  • Free and informed requests do not violate rights.

Morality and Other Normative Systems

  • Morality differs from, but overlaps with, law, etiquette, self-interest, and tradition.
  • Immoral acts can be legal and vice versa. Likewise, moral acts can be illegal and vice versa.
  • Etiquette and self-interest can conflict with moral principles.

Morality and Religion

  • The Divine Command Theory posits that actions are moral because God commands them. But it faces challenges.
  • If God does not have reasons for commands, they are arbitrary.
  • If God has reasons for their commands, then those reasons are more important than the commands themselves (implying that morality pre-exists God).
  • The argument from religious authority—that an action is immoral because a sacred text prohibits it—has vulnerabilities.
  • Different religious texts offer conflicting or problematic mandates. Interpreting these texts is also complex.
  • For morality, relying entirely on religious texts presents significant challenges (and non-religious people) need independent sources of moral guidance.

A note on defining Morality

  • Defining morality precisely is difficult. However, distinctions between conventional and critical morality, identifying branches of moral philosophy, and establishing plausible starting points for ethical thinking can help us understand its significance.

Overall Summary (Conclusion)

  • This section outlines the book's focus on moral philosophy, emphasizing distinctions between different moral systems and approaches to morality.

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Description

Explore the differences between conventional and critical morality, along with the key branches of moral philosophy. This quiz delves into value theory, normative ethics, and metaethics, providing insight into ethical considerations in various cultures. Test your understanding of moral systems and their implications in society.

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