Teoriji Meta-Etiċi u Normattivi

Study Notes

Meta-ethics examines the nature of ethical judgments, not the actions themselves.
Classifications: Cognitivism vs. Non-cognitivism, Universalism vs. Relativism, and Epistemological approaches (empiricist, rationalist, intuitionist).
Cognitivism: Moral judgments are propositions, either true or false. Moral realism (moral facts independent of thoughts) and ethical subjectivism (moral facts dependent on attitudes) are two main forms.
Non-cognitivism: Moral judgments aren't true or false; they express emotions (e.g., emotivism).
Universalism: Ethical principles apply to everyone everywhere.
Relativism: Ethical principles vary depending on individuals or societies.
Moral Intuitionism: Moral truths are known intuitively, without needing proof.

Normative ethics studies how people should act morally.
Categories: Deontological, Teleological, and Virtue ethics.
Deontology: Morality is based on rules and duties, regardless of consequences.
Teleology: Morality is determined by outcomes or consequences. Consequentialism (evaluating actions based on maximizing positive outcomes) is a key approach.
Virtue Ethics: Focuses on character development and virtuous habits. Emphasizes being a good person and acting virtuously in situations.

Examines practical, controversial moral issues using philosophical methods to find solutions.
Subfields: Bioethics (life, medicine, research), Environmental ethics (nature, ecosystem), Business ethics (corporate practices), Sexual ethics (issues of sexuality), Social ethics (society as a whole).

Actions are right if virtuous people would perform them.
Virtues are moral characteristics for a good life.
Emphasis on developing good character and avoiding vices.
Key figures: Socrates, Plato, Aristotle.
Aristotle's Ethics: Happiness ("eudaimonia") is the ultimate goal, achieved through self-realization and virtuous activity.
Telos: Inherent purpose or end. Human Telos is rationality, leading to a life of contemplation.
Virtues and the Golden Mean: Finding the moderate path between extremes (vices). Example virtues: courage, temperance, justice, prudence.
Phronesis (Practical Wisdom): Intellectual virtue guiding appropriate action in specific situations.
Aquinas, building on Aristotle, added a theological aspect to Virtue Ethics, emphasizing the role of divine law.

Natural law is derived from eternal law (God's plan). Accessible through reason.
Natural Law: Inherent principles to do good and avoid evil. Natural inclinations focus on survival, reproduction, education of offspring, pursuit of truth about God, and living peacefully.
Human Law: Concrete societal laws; must align with natural law.
Divine Law: God's revelation, supplementing natural law to reach our ultimate end- eternal happiness.
Features of human actions: Acts are evaluated considering their kind (species), circumstances (accidents), and intentions (end).
Happiness, Virtues, and Theological Virtues: Happiness isn't pleasure, but virtuous activity. Moral virtues (prudence, fortitude, temperance, justice). Theological virtues (faith, hope, love). These are related to God.

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