Ethics: Normative vs Descriptive Judgments

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Questions and Answers

What is the difference between normative and descriptive judgments in ethics?

Normative judgments express what ought to be done or what is morally right or wrong, while descriptive judgments focus on what is happening based on observation and evidence.

What makes an argument good in applied philosophical ethics?

Good arguments are clear, logically structured, relevant to the conclusion, consider opposing views, and reflect on the ethical choices in real life.

What is a moral principle?

A moral principle is a fundamental truth that serves as the basis for moral judgments.

How do moral principles factor into arguments in applied ethics?

Moral principles help frame arguments by offering foundational beliefs for deriving ethical conclusions. Signup and view all the answers

How do moral principles relate to moral theories?

Moral principles are the building blocks of moral theories, forming the basis for different ethical frameworks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the principle of utility?

The principle of utility suggests that an action is morally right if it results in the greatest happiness for the most people. Signup and view all the answers

How does utilitarian ethics differ from rights-based ethics?

Utilitarian ethics focuses on maximizing overall happiness, while rights-based ethics emphasizes respecting individual rights and dignity. Signup and view all the answers

What is Kant's principle concerning 'humanity'?

Kant argues that we should treat people as ends in themselves and not merely as means to an end. Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of virtue ethics?

Virtue ethics focuses on developing good character traits and emphasizes being a morally good person. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conclusion of Friedman's argument concerning the social responsibility of business?

Friedman concludes that the primary responsibility of business is to its shareholders, focusing on maximizing profits within legal and ethical bounds. Signup and view all the answers

What reasons does Friedman provide to support his conclusion about business responsibility?

Friedman states that prioritizing social goals over profits leads to wasted resources and loss of competitive edge. Signup and view all the answers

How does Friedman utilize consequentialist reasoning to support his conclusion?

Friedman asserts that profit maximization leads to the greatest overall benefit for society through economic growth and stability. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Freeman think that Friedman's argument is flawed?

Freeman argues that Friedman's view is too simplistic and overlooks the impact of businesses on various stakeholders. Signup and view all the answers

What does Freeman mean by 'managing for stakeholders'?

Freeman means that businesses should consider the needs and interests of all affected by their actions, not just shareholders. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ethical Judgments

Normative judgments dictate what ought to be done and establish moral standards.
Descriptive judgments concentrate on "what is" occurring, relying on observation and evidence without making moral claims.

Arguments in Applied Philosophical Ethics

Arguments consist of premises leading to a conclusion about ethical actions.
Effective arguments are clear, logically structured, and relevant.
They should address opposing views and reflect the real-world implications of ethical choices.

Moral Principles in Applied Ethics

A moral principle is a fundamental truth guiding moral judgments.
Moral principles shape arguments in applied ethics, offering foundational beliefs such as fairness and justice.
They provide a framework for evaluating ethical situations and discussions.

Relationship Between Moral Principles and Moral Theories

Moral principles are essential components of moral theories.
They represent core beliefs that underpin ethical frameworks like utilitarianism and virtue ethics.
Strong moral theories articulate principles and their role in ethical decision-making.

Principle of Utility

The principle of utility is associated with utilitarianism, proposing that morally right actions yield the greatest happiness for the majority.
It emphasizes the consequences of actions rather than intentions.

Differences Between Utilitarian and Rights-Based Ethics

Utilitarian ethics prioritize the best overall outcomes and maximize happiness for the majority.
Rights-based ethics, particularly Kantian ethics, focus on respecting individual rights and treating people with dignity, regardless of outcomes.

Kant's Principle of Humanity

Kant's principle posits that individuals must be treated as ends in themselves, acknowledging their inherent worth and autonomy.

Focus of Virtue Ethics

Virtue ethics prioritizes developing good character traits such as honesty and courage, emphasizing the moral integrity of the person.
It contrasts with utilitarian ethics' focus on outcomes and Kantian ethics’ adherence to moral rules.

Friedman’s Argument on Business Responsibility

Friedman argues that a business's primary responsibility is to its shareholders, advocating for profit maximization within legal and ethical boundaries.
He believes deviating from this responsibility undermines accountability and free-market principles.

Reasons Supporting Friedman’s Conclusion

Friedman claims that prioritizing social goals over profits can lead to resource wastage and weakened competitive advantage.
He asserts that social responsibility belongs to individuals, not businesses, which should remain focused on their economic roles.

Friedman’s Normative Reasoning

Using a consequentialist approach, Friedman argues that profit maximization benefits society by fostering economic growth and stability.
He also adopts a rights-based perspective, stating executives lack the authority to allocate shareholder resources for non-mandated social purposes.

Freeman's Critique of Friedman

Freeman contends that Friedman's position is overly simplistic, ignoring the broader impact of businesses on stakeholders beyond shareholders.
He advocates for a more nuanced view that reflects the complexities of modern business ethics.

Managing for Stakeholders

Freeman suggests that businesses should consider the interests of all affected parties—stakeholders, employees, customers, and communities.
This inclusive approach encourages ethical and sustainable business practices.

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Description

Explore the distinctions between normative and descriptive judgments in ethics through this quiz. Understand how normative judgments shape moral standards while descriptive judgments report on facts. Test your knowledge on the features of arguments in applied philosophical ethics.