Normative Ethics Overview

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Questions and Answers

Who first coined the term 'Consequentialism'?

Jeremy Bentham

G.E.M. Anscombe (correct)

Samuel Scheffler

J.S. Mill

What is a fundamental claim of consequentialist theories?

Consequentialism supports absolute moral laws.

Right or wrong is determined by consequences. (correct)

Right actions are based on intentions.

Moral actions have predefined rules.

According to Samuel Scheffler, what defines the right act in consequentialism?

The act that aligns with personal values.

The act that produces the best overall outcome. (correct)

The act that garners public approval.

The act that follows traditional morality.

Which of the following is NOT a normative consequentialist theory?

Deontological ethics Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a defining feature of consequentialist moral theory?

Weight given to consequences in evaluating actions. Signup and view all the answers

Consequentialism evaluates the rightness of an action based on what?

The consequences of the action. Signup and view all the answers

What do non-consequentialists believe about certain actions?

Some acts are wrong in themselves irrespective of outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

In consequentialism, what must be considered when assessing alternative actions?

The overall outcomes of each alternative. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of normative ethics?

How we ought to live and act Signup and view all the answers

Who is noted for first posing the question of how humans ought to live?

Socrates Signup and view all the answers

What does 'arête' refer to in Socratic philosophy?

Virtue Signup and view all the answers

What are normative ethical theories also known as?

Normative moral theories Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental question addressed by normative ethics?

Is morality subjective? Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of consequentialist theories?

The outcomes of actions Signup and view all the answers

According to Garrett Cullity, what does a normative moral theory specifically outline?

Morally right and wrong ways of living Signup and view all the answers

Normative ethics is divided into which two types of theories?

Consequentialist and non-consequentialist Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Normative Ethics

Normative ethics explores fundamental questions about how to live a good life, including: how to live, what is good, happiness, rights, duties to others, and societies.
It establishes principles and theories for determining right and wrong.
The concept of "arête" (virtue) is a key part of normative ethics, originating in ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Socrates' dialogues.

Normative Ethical Theories

Normative ethical theories are tools for answering how to live or what to do.
Such theories aim to provide moral principles and standards for human behavior.
These theories are also referred to as normative moral theories.
They address how individuals and institutions should act morally.
They outline what actions are morally right or wrong, good or bad.
Two main types of normative ethical theories exist: consequentialist and non-consequentialist.

Consequentialist Theories

Consequentialist theories judge the morality of an action based solely on its consequences.
They focus on outcomes and prioritize producing the best overall outcome for everyone.
Right and wrong are determined by the outcome of an action or behavior.
Examples include: utilitarianism, ethical egoism, and ethical altruism.

Non-Consequentialist Theories

Non-consequentialist theories judge the morality of an action based on factors other than its consequences.
They may consider the inherent nature of the action, the will of a higher power, or moral duties.
They might emphasize certain principles or duties, regardless of an action's outcome.
Examples include Kantian deontology, divine command theory, and virtue ethics.

Ethical Utilitarianism

Ethical utilitarianism is a consequentialist approach to morality.
It suggests that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people.

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Description

Explore the fundamental principles of normative ethics that answer key questions about living a good life. This quiz delves into ethical theories, including consequentialist and non-consequentialist frameworks, and highlights the importance of 'arête' in moral philosophy. Test your understanding of how these theories apply to moral decision-making.