GE1705 The Act Feelings and Moral Decision-making I

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Questions and Answers

What role do some ethicists believe feelings play in ethical judgment?

Feelings are instinctive responses to moral dilemmas (correct)

Feelings make moral decisions purely rational

Feelings are unnecessary in ethical judgment

Feelings are obstacles to making moral decisions

How do some ethicists view the relationship between reason and emotion in ethical thinking?

Emotions should be completely removed from ethical decision-making

They consider them as opposites

Reason and emotion are seen as complementary in ethical thinking (correct)

They believe emotions hinder reason in ethical thinking

What is one conclusion drawn about emotions in ethical judgments?

Emotions are solely based on personal beliefs

Emotions are always irrational

Emotions have no impact on ethical decision-making

Emotions can sometimes be rational based on good judgments (correct)

What is the main focus when considering ethical decisions at the end of a patient's life?

Preserving life Signup and view all the answers

How do feelings contribute to motivating individuals to act morally?

Feelings are instinctual by providing motivations to act morally Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to identify the principles involved in a moral dilemma?

To understand the values driving different positions Signup and view all the answers

What do many ethicists believe being good involves?

Both thinking and feeling Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of listing alternatives in resolving a moral dilemma?

To increase the chances of finding high-quality solutions Signup and view all the answers

Why is comparing alternatives with moral principles crucial in resolving ethical dilemmas?

To eliminate all alternatives except one Signup and view all the answers

Which theory runs contrary to the principle that morality is objective?

Ethical Subjectivism Signup and view all the answers

According to Emotivism, what is the primary purpose of moral judgments?

To express the speaker's emotions Signup and view all the answers

In ethical decisions, what does 'patient autonomy' refer to?

The right of the individual to make their own medical care decisions Signup and view all the answers

How does Emotivism interpret the statement 'Stealing is immoral'?

As a command to influence behavior Signup and view all the answers

Why does recognizing moral principles play a significant role in decision-making during a moral dilemma?

To help weigh principles against each other Signup and view all the answers

Based on Emotivism, when someone says 'Fair play is good,' what are they primarily doing?

Expressing their approval Signup and view all the answers

Why does Emotivism argue that moral sentences are not fact-stating?

Because they influence behavior and express attitudes Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental idea does Emotivism challenge in ethical discourse?

The existence of objective truth Signup and view all the answers

How does Emotivism contrast with traditional ethical theories?

By treating moral statements as expressions of emotions Signup and view all the answers

What does willpower refer to?

The strength to make decisions, take action, and handle tasks until accomplished Signup and view all the answers

How does disregarding our conscience affect us according to the text?

It may result in inadequacy, guilt, and diminished personal integrity Signup and view all the answers

What is a common demand for parents when using willpower?

Putting aside momentary pleasures to set a good example for children Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement of moral courage according to the text?

Recognizing responsibilities and being accountable for consequences Signup and view all the answers

What does moral courage and willpower help individuals to do?

Carry out actions that require effort, even if unpleasant or tedious Signup and view all the answers

Which action aligns with moral courage as per the text?

"Let's volunteer for a cause" Signup and view all the answers

What is the next step in the model if a clear decision is not forthcoming?

Reject some of the alternatives Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to weigh both positive and negative consequences when making a decision?

To consider the overall impact of the decision Signup and view all the answers

What is a common element in moral dilemmas according to the text?

Absence of easy solutions Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for executing a good rational moral decision according to the text?

Moral courage Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized as essential in morality alongside reason?

Moral courage Signup and view all the answers

How does the text characterize a good rational moral decision?

Possessing the least number of problems or negative consequences Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Role of Feelings in Ethical Judgment

Some ethicists believe that feelings play a crucial role in ethical judgments, influencing our moral intuitions and motivating us to act morally.

Reason and Emotion in Ethical Thinking

Ethicists recognize the interconnectedness of reason and emotion in ethical thinking, suggesting that while reason provides structure and analysis, emotions provide the impetus and motivation for ethical action.

Conclusion on Emotions in Ethical Judgments

Emotions are not simply distractions in ethical decision-making but rather essential contributors, providing a sense of urgency, empathy, and motivation.

Focus in End-of-Life Decisions

When considering ethical decisions at the end of a patient's life, the focus should be on respecting the patient's autonomy, dignity, and well-being.

Feelings and Moral Motivation

Feelings, such as empathy and compassion, can motivate individuals to act morally by making them sensitive to the needs and suffering of others.

Significance of Identifying Moral Principles

Identifying the moral principles involved in a moral dilemma is essential for providing a framework for ethical analysis and decision-making.

Nature of Being Good

Many ethicists believe that being good involves not only adhering to moral principles but also cultivating virtues, such as compassion, honesty, and integrity.

Purpose of Listing Alternatives

Listing alternatives in resolving a moral dilemma helps to expand the range of possible solutions and identify the most ethical option.

Comparing Alternatives with Moral Principles

Comparing alternatives with moral principles is crucial in resolving ethical dilemmas, ensuring that the chosen option is aligned with ethical values and minimizes harm.

Emotivism and Objective Morality

Emotivism, a philosophical theory, contradicts the principle that morality is objective, arguing that moral judgments are simply expressions of personal feelings or attitudes.

Purpose of Moral Judgments in Emotivism

According to Emotivism, the primary purpose of moral judgments is not to state facts but to express emotions and influence others' behavior.

Patient Autonomy in Ethical Decisions

In ethical decisions, "patient autonomy" refers to the patient's right to self-determination and the ability to make informed decisions about their own healthcare.

Emotivist Interpretation of Moral Statements

Emotivism interprets the statement "Stealing is immoral" as expressing disapproval of stealing and encouraging others to avoid it.

Recognizing Moral Principles in Decision Making

Recognizing moral principles plays a significant role in decision-making during a moral dilemma, providing guidelines for ethical action and helping navigate complex situations.

Emotivist Interpretation of "Fair Play is Good"

When someone says "Fair play is good" according to Emotivism, they are primarily expressing approval of fair play and encouraging others to engage in it.

Moral Sentences and Fact-Stating

Emotivism argues that moral sentences are not fact-stating, meaning they do not describe objective truths but rather express subjective feelings or attitudes.

Challenge to Ethical Discourse

Emotivism challenges the fundamental idea in ethical discourse that moral truths exist independently of individual preferences or opinions.

Contrast Between Emotivism and Traditional Ethics

Emotivism contrasts with traditional ethical theories, which seek to discover objective moral principles or values.

Willpower and Its Meaning

Willpower refers to the mental strength and self-discipline required to resist temptation, overcome difficulties, and achieve goals.

Disregarding Conscience and Its Impact

Disregarding our conscience can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and diminished self-respect.

Parental Demand for Willpower

Parents often demand willpower from their children, expecting them to control their impulses and resist temptations.

Moral Courage and Its Requirements

Moral courage requires the strength to stand up for what is right, even when facing opposition or adversity.

Moral Courage and Willpower's Impact

Moral courage and willpower help individuals to act in accordance with their ethical convictions and resist peer pressure or societal norms.

Aligning Action with Moral Courage

Choosing to speak out against injustice, even at the risk of personal consequences, aligns with moral courage.

Next Step in Decision Model

If a clear decision is not forthcoming after considering the alternatives and moral principles, the next step is to weigh the consequences of each possible action.

Weighing Positive and Negative Consequences

It's important to weigh both positive and negative consequences when making a decision to assess the potential benefits and harms of each option.

Common Element in Moral Dilemmas

Moral dilemmas often involve conflicting values or principles, making it difficult to choose the best course of action.

Executing a Good Rational Moral Decision

Executing a good rational moral decision requires careful deliberation, consideration of all relevant factors, and a commitment to act ethically.

Essence of Morality Alongside Reason

Alongside reason, feelings, such as compassion and empathy, are emphasized as essential in morality, reminding us of the human consequences of our actions.

Characteristics of a Good Rational Moral Decision

A good rational moral decision is characterized by thoughtful deliberation, alignment with moral principles, and consideration of the potential consequences.

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Description

Explore the role of emotions in moral decision-making, as some ethicists argue that emotions are necessary for ethical judgments. Delve into the debate on whether reason and emotion are opposing forces or can coexist in the realm of ethics.