Questions and Answers
What is the main focus of the Ancient Period in the history of philosophy?
What ethical theory is associated with the proponent Epicurus?
According to Aristotelianism, what is the key to achieving moral virtue?
What is the ultimate purpose of man according to Thomism?
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Which ethical theory argues that the greatest good is the upbringing of the greatest number of individuals?
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What does existentialism primarily emphasize regarding personal fulfillment?
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In the context of ethics, which of the following is a fundamental issue related to moral behavior?
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Which ethical framework includes the analysis of actions performed by a person knowingly and freely?
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Study Notes
Four Periods in the History of Philosophy
- Ancient Philosophy centers on the concept of Urstoff/Arche, representing the origin of the world.
- Medieval Philosophy focuses on God, integrating Aristotelianism which emphasizes reason and the harmony of faith and reason.
- Modern Philosophy shifts to a focus on humanity and the supremacy of reason over human appetites.
- Contemporary Philosophy explores existence, emphasizing personal meaning and individual experience.
Moral Philosophy: Ethical Theories
- Ethics derives from the Greek word “ethos,” encompassing habitual actions and moral character.
- Latin terms "mos/mores" reflect the customs and morality governing human actions.
- Hedonism (Epicurus) posits that pleasure is the highest good, recommending the avoidance of pain.
- Aristotelianism advocates for the pursuit of the golden mean; "nothing by excess, nothing by defect."
- Thomism (St. Thomas Aquinas) proposes that ultimate human purpose is the beatific vision of God, achievable through supernatural grace.
- Utilitarianism (John Stuart Mills) defines moral actions as those that promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number.
- Evolutionism (Charles Darwin) claims the greatest good lies in nurturing individuals with optimal faculties for survival.
- Existentialism (notables include Blaise Pascal, Kierkegaard, Jaspers, and Sartre) emphasizes personal fulfillment as life's purpose, hinging on faith and conviction.
Understanding the Human Act
- Human acts are characterized by conscious, rational thought and individual will.
- The 'end' of an act signifies its intended purpose or overarching goal.
Basic Issues Concerned in Ethics
- A. Rights and Duties address moral obligations.
- B. Love of God emphasizes the foundational role of divine connection.
- C. Love of Self focuses on self-care and respect.
- D. Bioethics tackles ethical issues in biology and medicine.
- E. Work Ethics pertains to the morality of professional conduct.
- F. Love of Neighbour emphasizes the importance of community and compassion.
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Description
Explore the four key periods in the history of philosophy focusing on moral philosophy and ethical theories. This quiz covers ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary approaches to ethics, including hedonism and Aristotelianism. Test your understanding of the evolution of these concepts and their proponents.
