Life Orientation: Ethics and Bias Practice Flashcards

A comprehensive set of practice questions and answers covering ethical theories (Virtue Ethics, Utilitarianism, Deontology, Contract Theory, Care Ethics) and the role of bias in ethical decision-making.

How does the educator's manual define the discipline of ethics?

Ethics is the discipline concerned with what is morally good and bad and morally right and wrong; it is also applied to any system or theory of moral values or principles.

What is the central focus of Virtue Ethics?

Virtue ethics focuses on developing good character traits (virtues) such as honesty, courage, kindness, and wisdom.

In Virtue Ethics, what is the 'Key Question' a person should ask?

'What kind of person should I be?'

What is a significant strength of Virtue Ethics?

It encourages long-term moral growth rather than quick decisions and focuses on motivations and personal integrity.

How does Utilitarianism judge whether an action is ethical?

Utilitarianism judges actions by their consequences, where the most ethical choice creates the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

What is the 'Key Question' associated with Utilitarianism?

'Which action will lead to the most overall happiness and least suffering?'

What is a major criticism of Utilitarianism according to the core values table?

It can justify harming minorities and makes it difficult to calculate all consequences.

Define Kantianism (deontology).

Deontology states that actions are ethical when they follow universal moral rules or duties, regardless of consequences.

In Deontology, what is considered more important than the outcome of an action?

Motive matters more than outcome.

What is a real-world example of Deontology provided in the manual?

Telling the truth even when lying might avoid conflict, because honesty is a universal moral duty.

What is the basis of ethics according to Contract Theory?

Ethics is based on the agreements (social contracts) people make to live together in a fair and cooperative society.

What is a limitation of Contract Theory in unequal societies?

It assumes everyone participates equally in agreements, which is not true in unequal societies, and contracts may exclude marginalised groups.

What does Care Ethics emphasize regarding ethical actions?

Care ethics emphasises that ethical actions arise from nurturing, maintaining, and strengthening relationships.

What is the 'Key Question' used in Care Ethics?

'How should I care for the people I am connected to in this situation?'

What is the compass analogy used to describe the relationship between ethics and bias?

Ethics can be seen as a compass that guides decisions, while bias acts like a force that pulls the needle away from the correct direction.

How is 'bias' defined in simple terms?

Bias is a tendency or preference for or against a person, group, or idea, which may be conscious or unconscious.

What are unconscious biases and why are they challenging?

Unconscious biases operate outside our awareness, appearing as automatic judgements or stereotypes that influence behaviour without us noticing.

Which tool can help reveal unconscious biases by showing patterns in how people associate ideas?

Implicit Association Tests (IATs).

What is 'Project Implicit'?

An independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit and international network of researchers studying implicit cognition—fast, automatic thoughts and feelings that shape perception, judgment, and behaviour.

What is a 'mind dump' as described in the educator's manual?

A mind dump is a rapid, unstructured writing exercise where a learner records all their ideas and knowledge about a topic.