Questions and Answers
What is the primary focus of ethics as a branch of philosophy?
Nina's decision to report her classmates was seen as a betrayal of trust.
True
What does the term 'philosophy' derive from in Greek, and what does it signify?
Love of wisdom
Ethics is a set of rules provided by an external source such as religion, culture, laws, and ______.
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Which of the following descriptions applies to moral judgments according to the content?
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Match the following concepts with their descriptions:
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The divine command theory suggests that people are obliged to follow the moral standards imposed by the law.
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What is one of the three sources that typically influence moral decision making?
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Lisa prefers non-team sports, which shows her ______ in sports choices.
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Match the following sources of moral authority with their descriptions:
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Study Notes
The Ethical Dimension of Human Existence
- Philosophy is derived from Greek meaning "love of wisdom" and involves questioning human thought, the universe, and their connections.
- Ethics, a branch of philosophy, defines standards of right and wrong as shaped by society, encompassing rules from external sources like religion, culture, and laws.
- Morality refers to the principles concerning what is right or wrong that guide individual behavior, integrating concepts of fairness, justice, and shared human needs.
- Nina’s dilemma highlights the conflict between personal integrity and loyalty to peers, prompting questions about moral responsibility.
Sources of Moral Authority
- Religion: Divine command theory emphasizes obedience to God’s will, often aligning religious teachings with ethical principles like love, generosity, and forgiveness, though challenges arise from diverse religious beliefs and doctrines.
- Law: Laws guide ethical behavior but can sometimes allow actions that are morally questionable, such as short-term employment practices that leave employees vulnerable.
- Culture: Cultural norms significantly shape moral values and decision-making. However, cultural relativism complicates ethics, as what is right in one culture may not be accepted in another, leading to potential abuse of vulnerable groups.
The Senses of the Self
- Subjectivism: Centers on individual judgment where a person is the ultimate authority in making moral decisions, emphasizing personal experience. Critique includes neglecting shared human experiences and the value of community perspectives.
- Psychological Egoism: Suggests all human actions are motivated by self-interest. This perspective challenges altruism, viewing even acts of kindness as self-serving, which can present a pessimistic view of human nature.
- Ethical Egoism: A theory advocating that individuals should act in their own self-interest as morally permissible, differing from psychological egoism by asserting that self-interest ought to be pursued, not merely observed.
Ethical Decision-Making
- Importance of making morally and ethically sound decisions is emphasized, particularly given the challenges individuals face in complex scenarios.
- Intrinsic values derived from upbringing, social interactions, and personal experiences contribute to forming one’s moral compass.
- Ethical dilemmas, such as Nina’s experience, reflect the multifaceted nature of human morality and the impact of context on ethical choices.
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Description
Explore key concepts in ethics and morality with a focus on real-life scenarios. This quiz examines the ethical choices faced by students and the implications of honesty in academic settings. Engage with thought-provoking questions that challenge your understanding of what it means to be a moral agent.
