Chapter 1: Ethical Theories Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the fundamental question of virtue ethics?

  • What kind of person should I be? (correct)
  • What should I do?
  • What are the consequences of my actions?
  • How should I follow the rules?
  • Which of the following is a pro of virtue ethics?

  • It provides clear guidance in moral dilemmas.
  • It relies on rigid rules to determine actions.
  • It is flexible and adaptable to different situations. (correct)
  • It encourages consistent moral evaluations.
  • What aspect of virtue ethics can lead to inconsistent moral evaluations?

  • Its emphasis on individual judgment and interpretation. (correct)
  • Its absolute nature in determining right from wrong.
  • Its focus on following prescribed rules.
  • Its reliance on societal norms.
  • Which of the following describes a limitation of following strict ethical rules?

    <p>It can become inflexible in the face of dramatic consequences. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do virtues develop through according to virtue ethics?

    <p>Learning and practice within communities. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary focus of ethics of rights?

    <p>Entitlement to fundamental rights. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What makes virtue ethics different from rule-based ethics?

    <p>It prioritizes intentions over outcomes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a criticism of virtue ethics?

    <p>It can conflict with moral intuitions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key aspect of utilitarianism that distinguishes it from other ethical theories?

    <p>It focuses on the consequences of actions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following does NOT describe utilitarianism?

    <p>It favors certain groups over others. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to utilitarianism, what should be considered when making moral decisions?

    <p>The happiness of all concerned. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential drawback of utilitarianism?

    <p>It is difficult to predict or measure consequences. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which principle aligns with the impartial perspective of utilitarianism?

    <p>The greater good for the greatest number. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which ethical theory is characterized by its reliance on measurable outcomes?

    <p>Utilitarianism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines the principles of justice in John Rawls' theory?

    <p>Choosing principles behind a veil of ignorance about social status and abilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism relate to the concept of hedonism?

    <p>Utilitarianism incorporates the pursuit of happiness for all. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In a pluralist ethical approach, which question aligns with Utilitarianism?

    <p>Will we be better or worse off overall considering the consequences? (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes a potential conflict posed by utilitarianism?

    <p>It can lead to the neglect of individual rights. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which ethical theory emphasizes obligations and duties?

    <p>Ethics of duty (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the question 'Am I treating everyone fairly here?' primarily relate to?

    <p>Theories of justice (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the pluralist approach, what must one consider about rights?

    <p>The fundamental human rights and the need for dignity of all. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key feature of the 'veil of ignorance' concept in Rawls' theory?

    <p>It prevents individuals from making bias decisions based on personal circumstances. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which principle asks if one's actions could be universalized for everyone?

    <p>Ethics of duty (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the pluralist approach combine when evaluating ethical decisions?

    <p>Multiple ethical theories including duties, rights, and consequences. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do deontological theories determine the rightness or wrongness of an action?

    <p>By assessing whether the action aligns with a moral norm. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the categorical imperative state?

    <p>An action is right if it can become a universal law. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes deontological theories from consequentialist theories?

    <p>Deontological theories evaluate actions based on moral duties. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to deontological ethics, what cannot justify the violation of a moral norm?

    <p>The potential for positive outcomes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key aspect of Immanuel Kant's deontological ethics?

    <p>Humans should be treated as ends in themselves. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of a negative right in deontological theory?

    <p>The right to privacy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered a pro of deontological ethics?

    <p>It respects the intrinsic value of every person. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does universality refer to in deontological ethics?

    <p>Moral standards should be applied consistently to all situations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in describing an ethical dilemma according to the guidelines?

    <p>Describe the situation in a value-neutral manner (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a suggested topic for describing an ethical dilemma?

    <p>Employee performance reviews (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must participants do with the selected case descriptions?

    <p>Upload them to Moodle by a specified date (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the content, what is said to significantly influence human behavior?

    <p>Fast, automated emotional judgments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are emotions and attachment often neglected in ethical decision-making according to Western theories?

    <p>They are considered irrelevant to rationality (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is often a conflict in ethical dilemmas as highlighted in the content?

    <p>Conflicting values such as honesty versus personal gain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a formal requirement for entering the exam?

    <p>Participation in the group discussion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is noted about the nature of moral reasoning in human beings?

    <p>It derives from an innate sense of morality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is classified as an individual factor influencing ethical decision-making?

    <p>Cognitive moral development (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'moral intensity' refer to in the context of ethical decision-making?

    <p>The degree of severity of the ethical issue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situational factor is concerned with how ethical behavior is treated within an organization?

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

    Which cultural characteristic can influence ethical decision-making in business?

    <p>Locus of control (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'moral framing' involve in ethical decision-making?

    <p>The presentation of the ethical issue (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes 'temporal immediacy'?

    <p>The time frame in which an ethical decision must be made (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is NOT a component of Hofstede's cultural dimensions relevant to ethical decision-making?

    <p>Concentration of effect (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situational factor relates to the likelihood of an outcome occurring from an ethical decision?

    <p>Probability of effect (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Consequentialism

    A theory that holds that the morality of an action is determined solely by its consequences.

    Hedonism

    A theory that states that pleasure or happiness is the ultimate good and the aim of moral action.

    Maximalism

    A theory that states that the best action is the one that produces the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of people.

    Universalism

    A theory that states that moral principles should apply equally to all people, regardless of their social position, culture, or other factors.

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    The impartial spectator

    A hypothetical, impartial observer who is able to judge the morality of an action from a perspective that is free from bias and self-interest.

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    Utilitarianism

    An ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of promoting well-being and happiness for all individuals, regardless of their individual characteristics.

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    Utilitarianism: Pros

    A major advantage of Utilitarianism is that it provides clear guidelines for making ethical decisions.

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    Utilitarianism: Cons

    A major disadvantage of Utilitarianism is that it can sometimes lead to morally questionable outcomes in certain situations.

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    Deontology

    Moral rules that determine the rightness or wrongness of an action, regardless of its consequences.

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    Universal Law

    A rule that should be followed consistently by everyone, regardless of consequences.

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    Human Dignity

    The idea that human beings should be treated with dignity and respect, as rational beings.

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    Ethics of Duties

    A moral framework that emphasizes the importance of fulfilling moral obligations.

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    Categorical Imperative

    A moral principle that states that you should act only according to rules that you would want everyone to follow.

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    Rationality

    The belief that actions must be consistent with rational principles, regardless of personal feelings or emotions.

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    Virtue Ethics

    Focuses on the character of the person making the decision rather than the actions themselves.

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    Virtues

    A person's character traits that enable them to act in ways that contribute to their well-being and flourishing.

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    Virtue Ethics: Advantage

    Virtue ethics is flexible and adaptable to different situations because it does not rely on rigid rules.

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    Virtue Ethics: Advantage

    Virtue ethics encourages individuals to act out of genuine moral motivation rather than merely following rules or seeking to avoid punishment.

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    Virtue Ethics: Advantage

    Virtue ethics has an optimistic and self-affirming interpretation of ethics: a virtuous character can be developed within all of us through the right habits.

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    Virtue Ethics: Disadvantage

    Virtue ethics doesn't always provide clear guidance on what to do in moral dilemmas or when virtues conflict with each other.

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    Virtue Ethics: Disadvantage

    Virtue ethics' reliance on individual judgment and personal interpretation of what constitutes a virtuous character can result in inconsistent moral evaluations and actions.

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    Ethics of Rights

    Every human being has a set of fundamental rights that should be protected, such as the right to life, freedom, and property.

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    Distributive Justice

    The idea that justice requires distributing benefits and burdens fairly amongst individuals, assigning rights, and distributing social goods like jobs, income, and wealth in an equitable manner.

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    The Veil of Ignorance

    A thought experiment where individuals are blind to their social standing, natural abilities, and wealth before deciding on principles of justice. This ensures fairness as individuals are not influenced by their own circumstances.

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    Ethics of Duty

    An approach to ethics that emphasizes our duties and obligations to others. It focuses on following moral rules and principles, regardless of the potential consequences.

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    Pluralist Approach

    A way of making ethical decisions by considering multiple ethical theories. It aims to find a balance between different ethical considerations.

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    Fairness

    The idea that everyone should have an equal chance in life and that processes should be fair. It addresses disparities and aims to create a level playing field.

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    Individual Factors in Ethical Decisions

    Personal values, psychological factors, locus of control, and cognitive moral development are key individual factors that influence ethical decision-making.

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    Cultural Influence on Ethics

    National and cultural characteristics, such as those outlined by Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions, can influence ethical decision-making.

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    Moral Intensity

    The magnitude of consequences, social consensus, probability of effect, temporal immediacy, proximity, and concentration of effect are all elements of moral intensity, which strongly influences ethical decision-making.

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    Moral Framing

    Moral framing refers to the way language is used to describe an ethical issue, which can influence how people perceive its ethical nature.

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    Contextual Influence on Ethics

    Context-related factors such as rewards, punishments, and the organizational culture can influence ethical behavior.

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    What creates an ethical dilemma?

    Ethical dilemmas arise when there is a clash between two or more values, making it difficult to choose the right course of action.

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    What is the focus of "Critical Approach & Business Ethics"?

    It examines how ethical decisions are made in real-world contexts, particularly in business.

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    What does it mean to describe a situation in a "value-neutral manner"?

    Describing a situation in a value-neutral manner means presenting the facts without adding your own opinions or judgments.

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    What is the underlying assumption of Western ethical theories?

    This approach emphasizes the importance of individual reason and logic in making ethical decisions.

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    Study Notes

    Critical Approach & Business Ethics

    • The course covers ethical theories and decision-making in business.
    • Week 2 objectives include understanding and applying different ethical theories, describing their advantages and disadvantages, and understanding the social origins of ethical decision-making.
    • Ethical decisions in business are complex and require transparency.
    • Ethical pluralism is a starting point, acknowledging different moral convictions and cultural backgrounds.
    • Ethical theories work best in a complementary manner, not mutually exclusive.

    Consequentialist and Non-consequentialist Theories

    • Consequentialist ethics judge actions based on their outcomes (e.g., utilitarianism).
    • Non-consequentialist ethics judge actions based on their adherence to moral rules or duties (e.g., deontology).

    Utilitarianism

    • Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory that prioritizes actions maximizing overall well-being.
    • It combines consequentialism with the view that well-being is the sole source of value.
    • An action is morally right if and only if it maximizes well-being.
    • The greatest happiness principle dictates choosing actions maximizing happiness for the greatest number.
    • Personal happiness maximization isn't utilitarian but egoistic.

    Utilitarianism: Key Characteristics

    • Consequentialism: The morality of an action is determined by its outcome.
    • Maximalism: The action should provide the greatest benefit to the majority.
    • Hedonism: Pleasure and happiness are the ultimate values.
    • Universalism: Actions should benefit everyone equally.

    The Impartial Spectator

    • "The happiness which forms the utilitarian standard of what is right in conduct, is not... (one's) own happiness, but that of all concerned." - John Stuart Mill

    • Utilitarianism requires impartiality similar to an impartial spectator.

    Utilitarianism: Pros and Cons

    • Pros: Clear, practical guidance for moral decisions; impartial and universal; flexible and adaptable; empirically grounded and testable.
    • Cons: Difficulty predicting consequences; potential conflicts with moral convictions (e.g., human rights); neglects motives, intentions, and character.

    The Costs and Benefits of Calculating Costs and Benefits

    • A human life in Switzerland is estimated to be worth 6.7 million Swiss Francs, used in policy analysis.
    • This cost-benefit analysis has been applied to the COVID-19 pandemic to determine if lockdowns were worth the economic losses.

    The Summers Memo

    • Economist Lawrence Summers advocated relocating polluting industries to lower-income countries.
    • This was deemed to minimize costs for those countries.
    • The efficiency of this approach was argued from a utilitarian perspective, showing how pollution can be transferred to lower-income nations resulting in overall gain for all involved.

    Effective Altruism

    • Effective altruism is a movement aiming to maximize positive impact on others.
    • It advocates using reason and evidence to determine how best to benefit others.
    • One interpretation involves maximizing earnings to donate to charities.
    • The movement was motivated by, among others, philosopher Peter Singer, who argued that people have an obligation to help those in poverty.
    • The drowning child analogy illustrates an obligation to act to save a life.

    Deontology: Ethics of Duties

    • Deontology is a duty-based ethical theory.
    • It assesses the rightness or wrongness of actions based on adherence to moral norms, not consequences.
    • Moral norms are universal and applicable to all individuals.
    • Deontological theories stand in opposition to utilitarianism, as actions are evaluated based on their conformity to moral norms.
    • Moral norms are often expressed in terms of moral rights and duties.

    Deontology: Ethics of Duties, Kant

    • Immanuel Kant believed ethical standards should originate from rational thought (not empirical experience).
    • An action is right only if the rule guiding it could be a universal law.
    • Consistency, universality, and respect for human dignity are key concepts.

    Deontology: Pros and Cons

    • Pros: Respects intrinsic value of every person; strong, widely shared moral intuitions; ethics are entirely within our control.
    • Cons: Can be inflexible; difficulty reconciling conflicting duties; potential for outcomes that conflict with moral intuition.

    Virtue Ethics

    • Virtue ethics focuses on moral character.
    • The fundamental question is not "What should I do?", but "What kind of person should I be?".
    • Virtues (e.g., honesty, self-control, fidelity, and courage) are developed through practice and communal learning leading to flourishing.
    • A virtuous person acts in ways reflecting these virtues.

    Virtue Ethics: Pros and Cons

    • Pros: Flexible and adaptable; promotes moral motivation (not just rules or punishment); optimistic and self-affirming, developed by habit through the right practices.
    • Cons: Doesn't always provide clear guidance in moral dilemmas; reliance on individual judgment, potentially inconsistent moral evaluations.

    Ethics of Rights

    • Human beings are entitled to fundamental rights (life, liberty, and property).
    • Rights theories provide a foundation for constitutional rights and treaties.
    • Rights are inalienable, basic entitlements inherent to all individuals.

    Example: The Right to Property

    • Everyone has the right to own property (alone or in association).
    • John Locke argued that labor creates property rights.
    • However, there must be enough left in common for others.

    Ethics of Rights: Justification

    • Entitlement to rights can be justified through fundamental beliefs about human nature (e.g., all men are created equal).
    • Rights can be seen as rationally justifiable outcomes of social contract.
    • John Rawls describes a thought experiment ("veil of ignorance") to formulate a theory of justice and associated rights.

    John Rawls: Justice as Fairness

    • Identifying the most essential principles of distributive justice.
    • Rights and liberties, social positions (jobs/offices), income, and wealth are valuable goods to be distributed justly.
    • Justice is achieved when principles are chosen from a "veil of ignorance".

    Combining Ethical Theories: A Pluralist Approach

    • A framework that considers various ethical considerations.
    • Social consequences are considered alongside duties to others, and the entitlements of others.
    • Fair outcomes consider the disparities between "winners" and "losers".

    Applying the Theory: Case Studies - Week 11

    • Application of ethical theories to case studies representing professional life.
    • Working in groups of four to five students.
    • Selecting one case with specific instructions on formatting and submission dates.

    Applying the Theory: Case Study Description

    • Value-neutral description of the ethical dilemma.
    • Explanation of its ethical nature and questions arising.
    • Identification of conflicting values.
    • Use of listed topics (discrimination, data handling, customer relations) for detailing the situation.

    Ethical Decision-Making: Who is In the Driver's Seat

    • Underlying assumptions of ethical theories: Rationality, autonomy, and a somewhat passive view of morality.
    • Acknowledging the role of emotions: Ethical judgments are influenced by fast, automated emotional judgments (not purely rational). Evidence indicates that humans are social beings, capable of moral reasoning, as well as inherently emotional.

    The Social Origins of Morality

    • Social animals share reciprocity and compassion.
    • Reciprocity is fundamental.
    • Selfishness can be a valid response only when relationships break down/become ineffective.
    • Empathy for others' feelings is crucial.

    So What "Triggers" Immoral Behaviour

    • Power: Individuals in positions of power might exhibit unethical behavior.
    • Psychological and/or Physical Distance: This makes it easier to treat people as commodities rather than individuals.
    • Group Thinking: Conformity pressures can significantly influence behavior.

    Group Thinking and Peer Pressure

    • Conformity experiments showed how strong group pressure can influence individual judgments.

    Individual Factors Influencing Ethical Decision-Making

    • National and cultural characteristics (Hofstede).
    • Psychological factors (locus of control).
    • Cognitive moral development.
    • Personal values

    Situational Factors Influencing Ethical Decisions

    • Issue-related: Moral intensity and framing.
    • Context-related: Rewards, authority, and bureaucracy.

    Evaluating Business Ethics

    • Normative ethical theories (egoism, utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, feminist ethics).
    • International differences in ethical perspectives.
    • Pluralist evaluation (integrating multiple perspectives).

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on various ethical theories, including virtue ethics and utilitarianism. This quiz covers key concepts, benefits, criticisms, and fundamental questions that arise within these ethical frameworks. Challenging questions await you to deepen your understanding of ethical philosophy.

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