Ethics Normative Theories Lecture Review

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and definitions from the Ethics Normative Theories lecture notes, focusing on various ethical theories and notions of free will.

What is a normative theory?

A theory that proposes what people ought to do; it’s prescriptive, not descriptive.

What does relativism assert?

Moral truths are not universal, but depend on individuals or cultures.

What is individual relativism?

Morality is based on personal beliefs/opinions.

How does cultural relativism define morality?

Morality is based on societal or cultural norms.

What is a key argument for relativism?

Moral disagreements exist across cultures.

What problem does relativism face regarding criticism of cultures?

It can’t criticize other cultures.

What is Divine Command Theory?

Morality is determined by God's commands—what God says is good is good.

What is the Euthyphro dilemma?

A philosophical question about whether things are good because God commands them or if God commands them because they are good.

What is Eudaimonia according to Aristotle?

Flourishing or happiness achieved through virtuous activity.

What is the Principle of Utility in consequentialism?

The right action maximizes happiness for the greatest number.

What distinguishes deontology from consequentialism?

Deontology judges actions by principles/duties, while consequentialism judges by outcomes.

What is the Categorical Imperative?

A universal moral law that applies to all rational beings.

What is Ross’s concept of Prima Facie Duty?

A duty that is binding unless overridden by a more important duty.

What is hard determinism?

The belief that determinism is true and free will does not exist.

What does libertarianism assert about free will?

That humans have free will, thus determinism is false.

What is compatibilism?

The belief that free will is compatible with determinism.

What are self-forming actions (SFA) according to Kane?

Key moral decisions where your effort tips the scale in your decision-making.

What is the consequence argument against free will?

If determinism is true, our actions are determined by laws of nature and past events, thus we have no moral responsibility.

What is agent causation?

The idea that agents can initiate causal chains themselves, independent of prior events.