Questions and Answers
What is the definition of ethics?
Ethics is the rational reflection on what is right and wrong, just and unjust, good and bad regarding human behavior.
What does cultural relativism mean?
Cultural relativism is the idea that a person's beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on that person's culture.
Ethical relativism believes there are universal standards for right and wrong.
False
In Christian and Catholic cultures, monogamy is considered ___ because it is seen as right.
Signup and view all the answers
Polygamy is considered ______ in Muslim Filipino culture.
Signup and view all the answers
What is moral absolutism?
Signup and view all the answers
Who is considered a moral agent?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a moral dilemma?
Signup and view all the answers
What does culture reflect in a society?
Signup and view all the answers
Culture is always individualistic and personal.
Signup and view all the answers
What is material culture?
Signup and view all the answers
What comprises non-material culture?
Signup and view all the answers
What is free will?
Signup and view all the answers
According to Immanuel Kant, what is the foundation of moral acts?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Definition of Ethics
- Ethics involves rational reflection on concepts of right and wrong, justice and injustice, good and bad in human behavior.
Cultural Relativism
- Cultural relativism emphasizes understanding beliefs, values, and practices within their own cultural context.
- Example: In Japan, bowing signifies respect and gratitude.
Ethical Relativism
- Ethical relativism posits that moral standards are not universal and can vary between societies.
- Example:
- Monogamy is accepted as morally right in Christian and Catholic cultures.
- Polygamy is accepted in Muslim Filipino culture but viewed negatively in Catholicism.
Moral Absolutism
- Moral absolutism holds that universal moral principles exist and can assess actions across cultures.
- Example: The golden rule advocates treating others as one wants to be treated.
Moral Agent
- A moral agent is someone capable of recognizing right from wrong and accountable for their actions.
- Example: Responsible for paying for repairs after crashing an expensive car.
Moral Dilemma
- A moral dilemma occurs when an individual faces conflicting choices, each with unacceptable implications.
- Example: Choosing between playing online games all night or sleeping before an early class.
Culture
- Culture embodies the moral and ethical beliefs guiding social interactions and behaviors.
- It's characterized by shared values, goals, and practices among a group or society.
Social and Communal Aspects of Culture
- Culture is inherently social and establishes laws and standards to promote communal relationships.
- Normative principles and behaviors are defined by cultural beliefs and practices.
Restrictions and Boundaries in Culture
- Culture instills restrictions that protect community members and foster a supportive atmosphere.
- Helps form the character and identity of the community and its individuals.
Kinds of Culture
- Material culture: Refers to physical objects and material goods.
- Examples: Clothing, artwork, tools.
- Non-material culture: Encompasses abstract ideas and shared intangible products.
- Examples: Languages, values, rituals, laws.
Freedom and Moral Acts
- Immanuel Kant posits that moral appraisal relies on human freedom.
- Good moral actions enhance freedom, while bad actions lead to moral bondage.
Types of Freedom in Moral Acts
- Freewill: The ability to choose one’s actions.
- Example: Selecting attire for school.
- Freedom: The power to act, speak, or think freely, without external restraint.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of ethics, including its definition and the principle of cultural relativism. Participants will reflect on what constitutes right and wrong behavior within different cultural contexts. Ideal for students studying ethics and moral philosophy.
