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What is one reason moral philosophers may overlook the ethics of risk?

They think utility maximization solves all issues.

They believe that risk does not affect values. (correct)

They are unaware of decision theory.

They believe risk is irrelevant to their philosophy.

In what way does utilitarianism handle risk?

By creating new moral principles about risk.

By eliminating risk from moral consideration.

By maximizing expected utility based on utility values. (correct)

By relying solely on intuitive judgments.

What does decision theory provide in the context of risk or uncertainty?

Utility definitions unrelated to risk.

Rational guidance based on values. (correct)

Emotional responses to risky situations.

Frameworks for moral considerations only.

What is a challenge when dealing with uncertainty in utilitarianism?

Identifying subjective probabilities for outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

What is central to the utilitarian approach to decision-making under uncertainty?

Maximizing expected utility and rational decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

How does the content describe the role of the ethics of risk?

To serve as a bridge between various branches of inquiry. Signup and view all the answers

What role does utility play according to the utilitarian approach?

It serves as a basis for moral judgment. Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion can be drawn about moral philosophy concerning risk and uncertainty?

It neglects the distinct moral aspects of risk. Signup and view all the answers

What does the difference principle specifically address regarding risk?

It maximizes the long-run prospects of the least advantaged group. Signup and view all the answers

What criticism does Hart have regarding the Rawlsian principle of liberty?

It fails to consider the distribution of risk from liberties. Signup and view all the answers

How does Harsanyi's 'original position' differ from Rawls' concept?

Harsanyi's model focuses on maximizing expected utility. Signup and view all the answers

Which example is used in the content to illustrate the risks associated with certain liberties?

Drunk driving. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key element missing in the difference principle's treatment of risk?

Specific guidelines on permissible risk levels. Signup and view all the answers

What does the absence of risk represent in the context of the difference principle?

A fundamental good to be maximized. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the 'veil of ignorance' in Harsanyi's model?

Not knowing which individual one will be affected by a decision. Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized regarding the general exercise of some liberties?

It can raise overall levels of risk significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What is described as a genuine risk that is difficult to protect against while leading a normal life?

Being killed by an aircraft dropping out of the sky Signup and view all the answers

What causes anxiety in relation to an additional risk?

The level of risk being above a certain threshold Signup and view all the answers

What is defined as a 'subliminal extra risk'?

A risk that does not increase anxiety levels despite its presence Signup and view all the answers

Why might a person be inclined to accept a subliminal extra risk?

They have nothing to gain from rejecting it. Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to a person's loss of well-being when considering a risk?

The possibility of losing expected utility Signup and view all the answers

What might motivate an individual to agree to a risk they do not benefit from?

They recognize the possibility of worse outcomes if they don't agree. Signup and view all the answers

What does the discussion imply about the degree of risk that causes anxiety?

It varies among different individuals based on their personalities. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated as a factor in the desire for agreement on principles of risk and uncertainty?

The recognition of the possible consequences of non-agreement Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily advocated by some members of the environmental movement?

A frugal and regulated life in small communities Signup and view all the answers

What do detractors argue about the proposed society?

It would be insufferably boring Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor that creates intractable problems in differing attitudes towards risk?

Conflicts of ideals rooted in value differences Signup and view all the answers

What must a person consider when deciding if an activity is permissible?

The value of engaging in it compared to the risks to others Signup and view all the answers

How can parties reach an agreement regarding risky activities?

By negotiating a level of precaution that is acceptable Signup and view all the answers

What might cautious individuals be willing to do for the sake of participation in an activity?

Take on significantly more risk than desired Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of stringent precautions in risky activities?

They can limit risks to others depending on how the activity is carried on Signup and view all the answers

What might compensate for short-lived fear according to the content?

An award convincing them of their well-being Signup and view all the answers

What is described as unable to substitute for a sense of security?

Other goods or advantages Signup and view all the answers

What generally leads to differences in how individuals perceive risk?

Their personal experiences and attitudes Signup and view all the answers

What do the more cautious individuals prefer over increased risk?

A safer environment Signup and view all the answers

What argument do the cautious make against increasing risk?

Risk can lead to personal harm Signup and view all the answers

What do the cautious believe about benefits offered for additional risk?

They are irrelevant to their fear Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, how do the more cautious react to imposed risks?

They experience insecurity and fear Signup and view all the answers

What is the disvalue recognized by cautious individuals concerning higher risk levels?

It can adversely affect their well-being Signup and view all the answers

What do the less cautious individuals believe is harmed by the cautious's veto of activities?

The prospects for happiness Signup and view all the answers

What must the natural rights theorist assert regarding John playing Russian roulette with Mary as the target?

It is his duty not to play Russian roulette with her. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario illustrates the concept of a rights violation despite no actual harm being done?

John plays Russian roulette, and a blank is fired. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue with applying a strict rule against actions with any positive probability of harm?

It could lead to paralysis of human life. Signup and view all the answers

How does the magnitude of harm influence the acceptability of a risky action in the context of rights?

The threshold probability of acceptable risk may vary depending on the harm's magnitude. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of trivial violation of rights is mentioned, and why can it be considered serious?

Soiling a handkerchief, as it affects property rights. Signup and view all the answers

What does the natural rights theorist prioritize in the context of rights and duties?

Rights over duties. Signup and view all the answers

What is one major challenge facing the idea of having a uniform threshold for acceptable risk?

It may result in absurdity when applied to trivial matters. Signup and view all the answers

Which assumption underlies the natural rights theorist's view on John’s actions in the context of playing Russian roulette?

The outcome of actions is less important than intentions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ethics of Risk

Ethics of risk investigates moral principles for choices where outcomes are uncertain.
Two main categories exist: decision-making under risk (known possible outcomes and their probabilities) and decision-making under uncertainty (unknown probabilities of outcomes).
Risk and uncertainty are central to many personal and public decisions (e.g., marriage, careers, government policies).
Moral philosophy often overlooks the ethics of risk.
Utilitarianism prioritizes maximizing expected utility, handling risk by assigning subjective probabilities.
Natural rights theory focuses on avoiding harming others, leading to potentially impractical restrictions or complex calculations involving probabilities.
Contractualism emphasizes rational agreement, but struggles to account for differing risk preferences among individuals, especially when risks are imposed on others, not taken by them.

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Description

This quiz explores the moral principles and decision-making processes involved in the ethics of risk. Delve into the categories of decision-making under risk and uncertainty, and analyze the implications of various moral philosophies such as utilitarianism and contractualism. Engage with real-world applications to better understand how ethics shape personal and public decisions.