Ethical Theory Overview

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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes deontological ethical theories from other types of ethical theories?

They rely on societal norms and traditions.

They focus solely on the consequences of actions.

They are based on rules, duties, and rights. (correct)

They are determined by divine beings exclusively.

Which type of ethical theory does Kant's philosophy belong to?

Intuitionism

Divine command theory

Reason-based theory (correct)

Consequentialism

According to Kant, what is required for a law to be considered a moral law?

It must carry absolute necessity. (correct)

It must be based on cultural traditions.

It must be agreeable to all rational beings.

It must have subjective interpretations.

How does Kant define a 'rational being'?

A being that can reason and be held responsible. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Kant argue that moral laws should not derive from human nature?

Human nature is too variable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of divine command theory as discussed in the content?

It depends on clear directives from divine beings. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant implication of Kant's view on moral obligation?

Moral obligations apply universally to all rational beings. Signup and view all the answers

Why might some human beings not be considered rational beings according to Kant?

They lack the ability to make moral judgments. Signup and view all the answers

What does moral subjectivism suggest about moral rules?

They depend solely on individual opinions or judgments. Signup and view all the answers

What is a central tenet of ethical objectivism?

Some moral rules have a basis independent of opinion or culture. Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates how cultural differences define normality according to Benedict?

The acceptance of polygamy in certain cultures. Signup and view all the answers

According to Rachels, why must all societies share some moral rules?

Because these rules are essential for societal survival. Signup and view all the answers

What does cultural relativism state about moral norms?

Moral norms vary between cultures and are determined by societal beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the prohibition on murder in Rachels' argument?

It highlights the need for safety and social interaction in society. Signup and view all the answers

What does King mean by stating we should obey just laws but disobey unjust laws?

There is a moral obligation to oppose oppressive laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements aligns with moral skepticism?

Nothing can be known for certain about moral rules. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Aristotle believe that becoming a virtuous person is very challenging?

It involves finding the mean between extremes consistently. Signup and view all the answers

What is germline editing primarily concerned with?

Altering genes in germline cells or early embryos. Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant ethical concern regarding germline editing?

The changes made are permanent and cannot be consented to by future generations. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of how gene editing may be used for enhancement?

Increasing muscle mass. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of child laborers globally in 2017 were aged 5-11 years old?

48% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reasons contributes to the persistence of child labor?

Widespread poverty. Signup and view all the answers

How many child laborers were reported globally in 2017?

152 million Signup and view all the answers

What issue does Feldman identify in Kant's formula of universal law regarding actions that are morally wrong?

It forbids actions that should be permissible in emergencies. Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible implication of gene editing leading to inequality?

It could exclusively benefit the wealthy. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios illustrates a nonmoral motive?

A firefighter rescues a child for recognition. Signup and view all the answers

According to Feldman, why is Kant's prohibition against lying considered a flaw?

It disregards the potential to save lives. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant mean by 'humanity' in the formula of humanity?

The capacity for rational thought and moral agency. Signup and view all the answers

What is one key distinction Kant makes regarding treating others as means?

It's acceptable if it respects their autonomy. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant's categorical imperative represent?

A command that never changes and applies to all rational beings. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions does Kant's formula of universal law justify?

Not lying to protect an innocent life. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant believe about moral actions?

They need to be universalizable and based on duty. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to treat humanity as an end according to Kant?

Always treating rational beings with intrinsic value. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is considered morally bad according to the concept of treating people merely as means?

Coercively making someone do something against their will. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios illustrates treating someone as a mere means?

Manipulating a friend into giving you money for your own needs. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Kant's formula of humanity reject the idea of robbing a bank?

It treats individuals involved as mere means. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant mean by saying something is 'good for its own sake'?

It has inherent value beyond its consequences. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Kantian ethics, which action is typically permissible when considering the treatment of others?

Offering help to someone who has consented. Signup and view all the answers

According to Kantian principles, which of the following is true regarding withdrawal of money from a bank?

It may treat people as means, but with their consent it is acceptable. Signup and view all the answers

What criticism does Ross have against Kantianism as illustrated by the example of prioritizing aid over a lunch date?

It lacks consideration for emotional commitments. Signup and view all the answers

Why would Kant reject cultural relativism as a moral framework?

It treats morality as culturally dependent and subjective. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kant identify as a major reason for rejecting Bentham and Mill's classical utilitarianism?

It fails to recognize that moral actions must not depend on outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

According to Kant, what role do inclinations play in moral decision-making?

They can often mislead individuals in ethical situations. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a truly moral action for Kant?

It must arise from a sense of duty and adherence to moral law. Signup and view all the answers

How does Kant's view of motives fundamentally differ from others in ethical discussions?

The morality of an action is evaluated based on the motive behind it. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Aquinas' natural law theory would Kant likely reject?

It emphasizes the significance of divine ordination in moral laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which element of Glaucon's social contract would Kant find problematic?

It posits that ethical principles can vary based on social needs. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects Kant's belief about human motivation in ethical actions?

Moral actions must be grounded in rationality and duty. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ethical Theory

Ethical theories are frameworks for understanding and evaluating moral issues.
Consequences, character, and inherent properties guide ethical decision-making.
Conventional assumptions about justice, often include the belief in the existence of justice, the importance of human-made laws, and direct benefits of just behavior.
Thrasymachus's view of justice challenges common notions as it asserts that justice is simply what benefits the stronger.
Thrasymachus argues that laws support existing hierarchies and injustice is more advantageous than justice, using examples of tax laws and contracts.
Thrasymachus's critiques reveal some flaws in conventional assumptions about justice, namely, the perceived universal benefit of justness and the idea that rules universally benefit society.
Defining terms is critical for effective discussion:
- Moral skepticism - no objective morality
- Moral subjectivism - morality is a matter of personal opinion
- Cultural relativism - morality is relative to culture
- Ethical objectivism - morality is universal and objective
Some moral rules are universally accepted because they are necessary for society to exist. Examples include the importance of caring for children, truthfulness, and the prohibition against murder, to maintain order and cooperation.

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Description

Explore key concepts and critiques in ethical theory, particularly focusing on Thrasymachus's challenging perspectives on justice. This quiz highlights different ethical frameworks, the importance of definitions, and contemporary implications of moral skepticism and subjectivism in decision-making.