key ethical theories

what are the four ethical theories

utilitarianism, deontological ethics, principlism, virtue ethics

what does utilitarianism classify as the best decision

the right action produces the best outcome/consequences

utilitarianism considers what

what action produces the greatest benefit for the greatest number of those affected

what are the advantages of utilitarianism (3)

takes into account everyone’s wellbeing equally, takes consequences seriously, harm-benefit analysis

what are the disadvantages of utilitarianism (2)

permits harming individuals for the greater good, risks treating people as containers for wellbeing rather than individuals capable of making own decisions

what is the main idea of deontological ethics?

some actions are wrong regardless of their consequences

what are the advantages of deontological ethics? (3)

explains why an individual can’t be sacrificed for the greater good, basis for informed consent and right to withdraw, rules for deception and manipulation

what does deontological ethics classify as NOT a way to treat others

as a means to someone else’s ends

what are the disadvantages of deontological ethics? (2)

moral duties can conflict with each other, doesn’t provide clear guidance on how to weigh competing duties

what is the main idea behind principlism?

principles are always morally important and need to be considered in relevant situations

what are the four principles in principlism?

autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice

what is autonomy

respect of the right for an individual to make their own decisions

what is beneficence

acting to maximise the benefit to others

what is non-maleficence

avoiding intentional harm

what is justice

fair distribution of benefits, burdens and resources

what are the two possible conflicts that can arise in principlism

autonomy vs non-maleficence, beneficence vs justice

what is the main idea of virtue ethics?

focused on character and being a virtuous/good person

what are the advantages of virtue ethics? (3)

importance of character, grounded in human psychology, emphasises desired traits

what are the disadvantages of virtue ethics? (2)

conflicting virtues, better at evaluating people rather than specific decisions

what are the 5 steps of the ethical decision making method?

define the problem, gather information, explore options, apply frameworks, make a decision and act