Ethical Theories

Flashcards for Ethical Theory, covering definitions and key concepts.

Ethical Theory

A systematic exposition of a particular view about what is the nature and basis of good or right. It helps make ethical judgments, provides reasons or norms, ethical principles or guidelines, and clear guidelines in making ethical decisions.

Meta Ethics

Focuses on the causes of right and wrong.

Normative Ethics

The study of right and wrong of human behavior.

Applied Ethics

Practical ethics based on the right and wrong concept.

Deontology

A duty-based ethical theory that looks for objective standards for assessing the rightness or wrongness of human actions and prioritizes obligation and duty.

Teleology

A consequences-based ethical theory where moral judgment is based on the consequence of an action.

Virtue Ethics

A character-based ethical theory concentrating on the notion that moral life is about developing good character.

Kant’s Moral Theory

A moralist approach that regards human rationality as the base of ethics, using the 'Categorical Imperative' as a standard of rationality.

Natural Law Theory

Ethical philosophy based on nature, emphasizing that goals are embedded in natural things with an order in nature. It relates to fulfilling one's nature as intended by God.

Utilitarianism

A consequentialist theory where an action is good and moral based on its consequences, promoting happiness for society and maximizing good for all persons affected by the action.

Ethical Egoism

The theory that one ought to pursue one’s self-interest exclusively and does not have any moral duty towards others but only towards oneself.

Virtue Ethics

A theory concentrating on the notion that moral life is about developing good character.

Moral Virtue

Excellence of character that concerns how one positions himself in acting well.

Intellectual Virtue

Excellence of mind that concerns with the ability to understand, reason, and judge well.