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Questions and Answers
What does P1 suggest about moral theories that fail to categorize moral worth correctly?
Which of the following does P2 assert about standard versions of moral theories?
What type of actions are described as lying beyond what duty requires?
How does Urmson support his claim regarding supererogatory actions?
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Which of the following best describes the three types of actions recognized in standard moral theories?
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In what context do we typically evaluate people as 'saints' and 'heroes'?
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What conclusion does the argument derived from Urmson's premises lead to?
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What is implied by the classification of 'wrong' actions in standard moral theories?
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Which of the following best describes actions that are far beyond what duty requires?
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What is a key characteristic of supererogatory actions?
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Why is categorizing supererogatory actions as 'required' considered a mistake?
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Which example best illustrates a supererogatory action?
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What does the phrase 'going the extra mile' signify in the context of moral actions?
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What is the problem with standard moral theories regarding supererogatory actions?
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Which statement correctly differentiates between permissible actions and supererogatory actions?
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What distinguishes high moral worth actions from obligatory actions?
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Which philosopher denies the high moral worth of supererogatory actions?
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What notion does Urmson suggest regarding duties and expectations?
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Which of the following conditions is NOT a requirement for duties?
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What is the stance on pressuring individuals regarding duties versus supererogatory actions?
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How are supererogatory actions viewed in traditional moral theories?
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Why might it be problematic to deny the existence of supererogatory actions?
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What is indicated about the moral complexities of actions beyond duty?
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What is one key feature of duties according to the presented content?
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What distinguishes Kant's view of moral actions from the notion of supererogatory actions?
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According to Aristotle, how should one determine the correct course of action?
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What is the main premise that challenges standard moral theories regarding action classification?
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What conclusion can be drawn if premise P3 is accepted in the given argument?
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What might be a response to the argument against standard moral theories?
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What does intuitive acceptance of premise P3 suggest about moral theories?
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What might Aristotle classify supererogatory actions as?
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What key aspect does the argument suggest standard moral theories overlook?
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Study Notes
Urmson's Challenge to Moral Theory
- Urmson argues that standard moral theories fail to account for supererogatory actions, that is, morally commendable actions exceeding duty requirements.
- He proposes that these actions have moral worth and are not simply permissible, as traditional theories suggest.
Arguments for Supererogatory Actions
- Urmson supports the existence of supererogatory actions through examples of saints and heroes.
- He identifies three categories of saintly and heroic actions:
- Actions that exhibit exceptional self-control in fulfilling duties.
- Actions that fulfill duties effortlessly.
- Actions that vastly exceed duty requirements.
Supererogatory Actions and Standard Theories
- Urmson argues that utilitarian, Kantian, and Aristotelian frameworks struggle to categorize supererogatory actions.
- Utilitarianism focuses on maximizing good, leaving no room for actions exceeding what is required for optimal outcomes.
- Kant's focus on duty as the sole source of moral value does not readily accommodate actions beyond duty's mandate.
- Aristotelian ethics, emphasizing virtue and a good life, might classify these actions as either wrong or required, failing to capture their unique moral worth.
Potential Responses to Urmson's Challenge
- To counter Urmson's argument, one could deny the existence or value of supererogatory actions, which contradicts common intuitions.
- Alternatively, one could revise existing moral theories to incorporate a category for supererogatory actions.
- Another option is to develop entirely new moral theories that accommodate the complexity of moral actions.
Revising Moral Theories
- Urmson suggests differentiating between duties, which are minimal requirements, and supererogatory actions, which are actions exceeding expectations.
- Duties are expected and enforceable through pressure and censure.
- Supererogatory actions are praised and appreciated but should not be enforced or criticized.
- This approach acknowledges the distinction between necessary moral obligations and praiseworthy actions beyond duty.
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Description
Explore Urmson's critique of standard moral theories regarding supererogatory actions. This quiz covers his arguments, examples of exceptional actions, and how traditional frameworks like utilitarianism and Kantian ethics fail to accommodate these moral commendable acts. Test your understanding of moral philosophy and supererogation.