28 Questions
What is the problem with taking a subjectivist stance towards ethics?
It leads to moral relativism and undermines the objectivity of ethics.
What is the key idea behind the theory of psychological egoism?
The underlying dynamic behind all human actions is the pursuit of self-interest.
What is the key difference between subjectivism and ethical egoism?
Subjectivism focuses on the individual's moral views, while ethical egoism prescribes that individuals should make their own interests the primary concern.
What is the main challenge to ethics raised by the theory of ethical egoism?
It suggests that individuals should make their own interests the single overriding concern, which may conflict with the needs of society.
Which of the three theories discussed in the text is described as 'irrefutable but useless'?
Psychological egoism
What is the starting point of the subjectivist stance towards ethics?
The recognition that the individual is the sole determinant of moral values.
What is the main difference between psychological egoism and ethical egoism?
Psychological egoism claims that all actions are self-serving, while ethical egoism prescribes making self-interest the top priority.
In the context of the text, how does psychological egoism view apparently other-directed behavior such as acts of generosity?
As driven by self-serving desires, even if not acknowledged by the person.
How does ethical egoism differ from psychological egoism regarding the basis for human actions?
Ethical egoism allows for actions that benefit others if it serves one's own interests, unlike psychological egoism which sees all actions as self-serving.
What is the key idea behind psychological egoism as presented in the text?
All human actions are inherently selfish, driven by self-serving desires.
In what way does ethical egoism suggest individuals should prioritize their actions?
By making their own interests the foremost consideration above all else.
Why might psychological egoism lead to a cynical view of humanity?
Because it suggests that all seemingly altruistic acts are ultimately self-serving.
Which of the following is NOT a reason why subjectivism reflects how we use moral language?
It provides an objective truth about morality.
According to the simplest form of subjectivism, if someone approves of telling lies and says "Telling lies is good", what does this imply?
Their statement is unarguably true from their subjective perspective.
Which of the following best describes the evaluative element of moral statements that subjectivism reflects?
Moral statements make judgments about what is right or wrong.
Which of the following statements is true about the relationship between subjectivism and moral disagreements?
Subjectivism suggests that moral disagreements are about personal preferences.
Which of the following best represents the idea that "If I approve of something, it must be good" in the context of subjectivism?
It suggests that moral statements are based on personal preferences.
Which of the following statements best represents the contrast between moral statements and factual statements?
Moral statements make judgments, while factual statements describe objective facts.
What is the fundamental challenge posed by ethical egoism?
Why should one be concerned about the welfare of others?
What does the text suggest about the nature of the world, according to ethical egoism?
It is a competitive and self-centered environment.
What should be the primary concern for an individual following ethical egoism?
The satisfaction of one's own desires and interests.
What is the author's personal experience related to ethical egoism?
The author has struggled with the question of why one should care for others at some point.
What is the core idea of ethical subjectivism?
Moral opinions are based solely on feelings and emotions.
What does ethical subjectivism claim about the existence of objective moral truths?
There are no objective moral truths; morality is entirely subjective.
Which of the following statements best represents the ethical subjectivist view?
If I feel something is morally right, it is right only for me and not a universal truth.
According to the examples provided in the text, which of the following actions would be considered morally right from an ethical subjectivist perspective?
Both (a) and (b) would be considered morally right.
Which of the following statements best captures the criticism of ethical subjectivism presented in the text?
Subjectivism lacks a rational or reasoned basis for moral decisions.
Based on the text, which of the following statements is true about ethical subjectivism?
It rejects the existence of objective moral truths and considers morality to be entirely subjective.
Test your understanding of the topics covered in Unit I-Lesson 5 regarding different stances towards ethics, including subjectivism, psychological egoism, and ethical egoism. Explore the challenges and implications of these concepts on moral valuation.
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