HED 2101 Principles of Ethics Week 1

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the humanities?

The exploration of human culture through various forms of expression. (correct)

The study of mathematical theories and equations.

An analysis of scientific processes and discoveries.

The examination of technological advancements and their implications.

What key disciplines are included in the study of the humanities?

Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology.

History, art, music, languages, and philosophy. (correct)

Mathematics, Statistics, and Economics.

What term was used by Italian humanists in the 15th century to denote the study of various humanities subjects?

Humanistica.

Philosophia harmonica.

Critica literaria.

Studia humanitas. (correct)

According to the content, what distinguishes humans from other creatures?

The capacity for artistic creation and personal history. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a subject within the humanities?

Physics. Signup and view all the answers

What does the study of humanities aim to understand?

Human culture and experiences through various mediums. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elements is commonly associated with the humanities?

Artistic expression and interpretation. Signup and view all the answers

How does the content define the humanities?

The examination of human culture and expressions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of moral philosophy?

The investigation of human morality and ethics Signup and view all the answers

What are the three branches of moral philosophy?

Normative ethics, descriptive ethics, and meta-ethics Signup and view all the answers

How is ethics defined in a general sense?

Moral principles that inform right and wrong actions Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the term 'formal object of ethics'?

The principles that guide moral reasoning Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the 'material object of ethics'?

The specific ethical dilemmas faced by individuals Signup and view all the answers

Why is philosophical anthropology important in understanding ethics?

It explores human identity and moral experience Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception do people have regarding ethics?

Ethics is only about laws and regulations Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes scientific knowledge from opinions in the context of ethics?

Scientific knowledge is based on empirical evidence and rigorous methods Signup and view all the answers

Which type of goodness is primarily focused on the moral character of human actions?

Moral goodness Signup and view all the answers

What does the formal object of ethics primarily focus on?

The study of human actions Signup and view all the answers

Which type of goodness refers to the inherent quality of objects themselves?

Ontological goodness Signup and view all the answers

In what context is technical goodness typically assessed?

Skills and abilities in performing tasks Signup and view all the answers

What primary question does ethics seek to understand regarding human actions?

Are actions good or bad? Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best represents the meaning of ethics as a normative science?

It prescribes guidelines for right and wrong actions. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to distinguish between the material and formal objects of ethics?

To clarify the scope and focus of ethical studies. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following interpretations best captures the philosophical aim of ethics?

To clarify the nature of rightness and wrongness in actions. Signup and view all the answers

What core subjects are emphasized as essential knowledge for a well-educated person?

Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of meta-ethics in ethical study?

Understanding the nature of moral concepts Signup and view all the answers

According to Martin Luther King Jr., what is the ultimate goal of true education?

To develop intelligence combined with character Signup and view all the answers

Which foundational course is required for all first-year students in SHSS?

Philosophical Anthropology Signup and view all the answers

According to Aristotle, what is the purpose of studying ethics?

To become virtuous and good Signup and view all the answers

What benefit does studying the humanities provide according to Professor David Behling?

Enhances understanding of diverse human experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does normative ethics primarily focus on?

Formulating rules and norms for behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between ethics and psychology?

They explore the impact of moral reasoning on mental processes Signup and view all the answers

Which CEO is noted for having a degree in Communications?

Howard Schultz Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the SHSS program, which track can students choose in their second year?

Languages or History/Philosophy Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of ethical reflection is emphasized in the course notes?

Basing reflection on human experiences Signup and view all the answers

What is a sentiment expressed by Martin Luther King Jr. about education?

Education can be dangerous without moral development. Signup and view all the answers

Philosophical induction in ethics serves which purpose?

To provide a method for ethical analysis Signup and view all the answers

What type of ethical experience reflects our internal morality?

Internal experience Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a course in the SHSS program?

Principles of Economics Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes applied ethics?

A study of how to implement ethical theories in real-life situations Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Course Overview: Principles of Ethics

Course facilitated by Dr. Maria Rosario Catacutan at Strathmore University (April to July 2024).
Core textbooks include Ethics, Learning to Live by Patricia Debeljuh and provisional course notes by Dr. Catherine Dean.

Course Outline and Structure

Emphasizes foundational courses such as Philosophical Anthropology and Principles of Ethics.
Second-year electives available in Languages or History/Philosophy track.
Group presentations are a key component, with enrollment and communication facilitated through the e-learning platform using the key POETHICS204.

Understanding Humanities

Humanities study human experiences through disciplines like philosophy, literature, and art.
Key focus on the unique aspects of human nature: thought, language, creativity, freedom.
Origin of the term "humanities" dates back to the 15th century, referring to studies fostering grammar, history, and philosophy.

Importance of Humanities Education

Mastery of humanities is essential alongside sciences and social sciences for well-rounded education.
Education should encourage critical thinking and moral reasoning to develop character, as emphasized by figures like Martin Luther King Jr.

CEOs with Humanities Backgrounds

Notable CEOs with degrees in humanities include:
- Howard Schultz (Starbucks) - Communications
- Richard Pleper (HBO) - Political Science
- Susan Wojcicki (YouTube) - History and Literature
- Carly Fiorina (HP) - Philosophy and History
Emphasizes that the blend of technology and humanities leads to innovation.

Introduction to Ethics

Ethics defined as the study of moral principles that differentiate right from wrong.
Involves philosophical anthropology to explore the nature of humanity and rational thought.
Analyzes human actions based on their moral value, assessing goodness or badness.

Concepts in Ethics

Material object of ethics refers to the subject matter—human actions—and formal object focuses on morality concerning those actions.
Goodness can be categorized as:
- Ontological (goodness of things)
- Technical (goodness of actions)
- Moral (central focus of ethics, relating to character).

Ethical Frameworks

Ethics as a theoretical science investigates concepts and principles underpinning moral activity.
Practical ethics emphasizes the application of ethical knowledge to cultivate virtue.
Normative ethics deals with rules and norms guiding behavior in various contexts.

Ethical Reflection

Rooted in moral experience—both external interactions and internal reflection using moral language.
Encourages philosophical examination of moral experiences to determine ethical implications and responsibilities.

Key Questions for Ethical Study

Importance and definitions of ethics, origins of the term from Greek language.
Distinctions between scientific knowledge and opinions in ethical discussions.
Clarity on material and formal objects in shaping moral understanding.

Integration of Ethics with Other Disciplines

Intersections with psychology, sociology, and law, highlighting the broad relevance of ethical principles across various fields.

Studying That Suits You

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Description

This quiz covers the foundational concepts introduced in Week 1 of HED 2101 Principles of Ethics. It is designed to assess your understanding of ethics as explored in the course facilitated by Dr. Maria Rosario Catacutan. Prepare to engage with critical ethical principles and their applications in society.