PHIL 270 – Exam 2 Study Guide

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on social contract theory, virtue ethics, and AI ethics.

John Rawls - Social Contract Theory

Justice is defined as fairness; rules should be determined without knowledge of one's social position.

Veil of Ignorance

A method of removing bias in the creation of fair rules.

Original Position

A hypothetical setup used for designing a just society.

Greatest Liberty Principle

A principle stating that equal basic freedoms should be afforded to all individuals.

Difference Principle

Allows inequalities only if they benefit the least advantaged members of society.

Moral Desert

The concept rejected by Rawls which suggests that success is often due to luck rather than simply merit.

Affirmative Action

A debated practice concerning the balance between fairness and diversity in society.

Dworkin's viewpoint

The argument that race-conscious policies do not violate individual rights.

Telos of University

The university's purpose includes promoting diversity and education, not solely focusing on merit.

Aristotle - Virtue Ethics

Ethical theory focusing on character development rather than solely on rules or outcomes.

Eudaimonia

The concept of flourishing or living well, which encompasses more than just pleasure.

Function Argument

The idea that because humans are rational beings, a good life involves the proper use of reason.

Doctrine of the Mean

Virtue is achieved by finding a balance between extremes.

Phronesis

Practical wisdom that involves applying virtue in real-life situations.

AI and Ethics

AI lacks true moral judgment and can reinforce biases, making reliance on it ethically risky.

Human Responsibility

The assertion that humans must retain responsibility for moral choices, despite AI's capabilities.

Rawls vs Aristotle

Rawls emphasizes fairness and equality while Aristotle focuses on character and excellence.