Ethics Midterm

Classical Questions

Fundamental inquiries within ethics and philosophy that focus on defining moral values and understanding ethical frameworks.

Types of Ethics

Different branches of ethical study, including empirical, normative, and analytical ethics.

Empirical Ethics

The analysis of existing norms and values within a group or society, exploring their origins and applications.

Normative Ethics

A branch of ethics that involves structured reflection on the formulation and justification of norms and values.

Analytical Ethics

The systematic examination of concepts and ideas within ethics, often focusing on their meaning and implications.

Objective vs. Subjective

Objective implies a single correct answer based on rational conclusions, while subjective is influenced by personal beliefs and opinions.

Ethical Argumentation

The process of discussing and debating moral issues, employing reasoning to support ethical positions.

Methods of Ethical Decision Making

Various approaches to resolving ethical dilemmas, including Utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics, and Virtue Ethics.

Utilitarianism

An ethical theory that determines the rightness of actions based on their contribution to overall happiness.

Kantian Ethics

An ethical framework that stresses adherence to moral laws and rules, independent of consequences.

The Categorical Imperative

A foundational concept in Kantian ethics that urges individuals to act only according to maxims that can be made universal.

CI Method A

A particular application of the Categorical Imperative focusing on the universalizability of actions.

CI Method B

Another application of the Categorical Imperative that emphasizes treating individuals as ends in themselves.

Virtue Ethics

An ethical theory that focuses on the development and realization of virtues and moral character.

Virtue Method A

An approach in virtue ethics that assesses actions based on their contribution to personal and professional virtues.

Virtue Method B

A virtue ethics method that evaluates actions based on their effects on the community and societal well-being.

Care Method

An ethical approach that emphasizes interpersonal relationships and the moral significance of care and compassion.

Rawlsian Method

An ethical perspective prioritizing fairness, determining the right course of action from a 'veil of ignorance'.

Discourse Method

An ethical decision-making framework that highlights the importance of rational discourse and argument in ethics.

Adam Smith

An economist known for his theories on capitalism and the 'invisible hand' guiding economic markets.

General Equilibrium Theory

An economic theory proposing that individuals act as self-interested rational agents, leading to market efficiencies.

Why is Capitalism Good?

Arguments for capitalism often cite its efficiency, innovation, and ability to promote individual freedom and choice.

Criticisms of Capitalism

Concerns about capitalism include inequality, exploitation, and its tendency to overlook social welfare.

New Criteria for Good Economy

Emerging measures of economic success that consider well-being, sustainability, and social justice.

Responsibility of Business

The expectation that businesses must consider their impact on society and the environment in their operations.

ELCA Method

Ethical Life Cycle Assessment, a method for identifying business-specific ethical responsibilities throughout product life cycles.

Corporate Responsibility

The ethical obligation of businesses to consider the social and environmental impacts of their activities.