Ethics 1: Utilitarianism and Deontology

An ethical framework that judges the morality of an action based on its outcome.

A type of ethical theory that judges the morality of an action by its results.

A scenario where the ethical justification for torture is debated using a consequentialist reasoning, weighing individual suffering against the saving countless lives.

The quality of information obtained through torture is questioned due to the possibility of the suspect lying under duress or being innocent.

Using torture can have an unacceptable impact on society leading to systematic abuse and violation of human rights.

A thought experiment in ethics about choosing between two morally challenging options, often involving saving some lives at the cost of others.

Ethical theory emphasizing adherence to rules and moral principles, even if it leads to worse outcomes.

A trolley problem variation where one person can be saved by diverting the trolley.

Utilitarian viewpoint supporting a more direct action (e.g., pushing a person off a bridge) to save a larger number of lives.

Deontological viewpoint refusing to directly cause harm, even if it means a larger number of lives are lost.

Deontological viewpoint rejecting a direct action to save lives, as it violates fundamental principles like rights and dignity.

Ethical thought experiment focusing on exceptional circumstances and the justification of actions to prevent greater harm.

Focuses on developing moral character and virtues (like courage, generosity, and justice) as crucial to ethical living.

Mill's view that happiness or pleasure is the ultimate goal, and actions are right if they maximize happiness for the greatest number of people.

Improved public services (like education and healthcare), moral satisfaction, and social stability result from responsible tax contributions.

Paying taxes means reduced personal income, requiring financial sacrifice.

Cultivating virtues is essential for maximizing overall societal happiness (Mill's Utilitarianism).

Essential services funded by taxes, including education, healthcare and infrastructure.

Feeling of pride, responsibility, and integrity from fulfilling civic duties like paying taxes.

Fair tax payments promote trust in government, social harmony and equity.

A form of utilitarianism that focuses on the consequences of individual actions.

A form of utilitarianism that focuses on the consequences of following moral rules.

A moral law that must be followed regardless of personal desires or consequences.

The principle that a moral rule must apply to everyone in similar situations.

Human beings should never be treated merely as a means to an end, but always with respect.

The capacity for self-governance and moral independence.

Reason independent of experience or emotion, used to understand morality.

Acting morally out of a sense of duty, not for personal gain or outcome.

A principle of conduct that guides moral decisions.

The fundamental moral law.

The goal of Hinduism to unite the Atman (inner self) with Brahman (ultimate reality) by fulfilling Dharma (duties).

Moral duties and responsibilities in Hinduism.

Guide to moral character, including Ren (benevolence), Yi (righteousness), Li (propriety).

The Golden Rule in Confucianism: treating others as you want to be treated.

The individual soul, a part of Brahman (ultimate reality) in Hinduism.

The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Hinduism and Buddhism.

The ultimate reality or source of all existence in Hinduism.

The ultimate goal of Buddhism, release from suffering (Dukkha) and the cycle of rebirth.

A method for determining the rightness or wrongness of an action by imagining if the maxim governing the action becomes a universal law; if the maxim leads to a contradiction, the action is wrong.

A personal rule or principle that guides one's actions. For example: "When I need money, I shall borrow it from someone without intending to pay it back."

An imperative (command) that applies conditionally, for example, if you want certain results, then you will do this. This depends on a will to achieve something.

A principle that applies to everyone in all similar situations.

Obligation to act in accordance with moral principles.

A logical inconsistency that arises when a maxim is applied universally.

Act only in accordance with that maxim through which you can at the same time will that it become a universal law.