Ethical Theories Overview

This flashcard set covers key theories and concepts from multiple ethical philosophies studied in the lecture.

What is Cultural Relativism?

Moral right and wrong are relative to each culture, with no universal moral truths.

Who explored Cultural Relativism?

James Rachel.

What is a key pro of Cultural Relativism?

Promotes tolerance and open-mindedness.

What is a key con of Cultural Relativism?

Prevents moral criticism of harmful customs.

What does Ethical Egoism advocate?

People ought to act in their own self-interest.

Who is the philosopher associated with Ethical Egoism?

Thomas Hobbes.

What is a key pro of Ethical Egoism?

Encourages personal responsibility and rational decision-making.

What is a key con of Ethical Egoism?

Leads to conflict when interests clash.

What does Hobbes' Social Contract Theory imply?

Morality and law arise from a social contract where individuals give up freedoms for peace and safety.

What is the 'State of Nature' according to Hobbes?

Life is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.

What is Utilitarianism?

The right action is one that produces the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

Who are the key philosophers behind Utilitarianism?

Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

What is Bentham's Hedonic Calculus?

A method to measure pleasure by criteria such as intensity, duration, and certainty.

What distinguishes Mill's view on pleasures?

Higher (intellectual) vs lower (bodily) pleasures.

What is Duty Ethics according to Kant?

Morality is based on duty, actions are right when done from moral law.

What is the Categorical Imperative?

Act only on maxims you can will as universal laws.

What does Virtue Ethics focus on?

Developing virtuous character to achieve eudaimonia (flourishing).

Who developed the stages of moral development?

Lawrence Kohlberg.

What are the three levels of Kohlberg's stages?

Preconventional, Conventional, and Post-conventional.

What is the Heinz Dilemma?

A moral dilemma used to illustrate ethical reasoning, particularly with Kant's views.

What is a significant difference between Duty Ethics and Utilitarianism?

Duty Ethics focuses on intentions, while Utilitarianism focuses on outcomes.