Normative Morality Exam Review

This set of flashcards captures key concepts and questions related to conflicts in normative morality, useful for exam preparation.

What does it mean to say that two moral obligations are in conflict?

It means that an agent must fulfill two distinct actions that cannot both be fully carried out.

How is a conflict between two obligations different from a conflict between two personal preferences?

Obligations involve moral duty and potential blame, while preferences lack normative force.

Why can conflicts between two moral obligations be harder to resolve than conflicts between a moral obligation and a personal preference?

Because both obligations have legitimate claims on the agent, making resolution more complex.

In a conflict of obligations, why might fulfilling one obligation mean failing to fully fulfill the other?

Actions required by two obligations may be mutually incompatible, leading to non-fulfillment.

What is meant by 'prioritizing' obligations when they conflict?

It refers to assessing the moral weight of obligations and deciding which one should override the other.

How can ethical theories help us decide which obligation should come first in a conflict?

They provide criteria for ranking obligations, such as utilitarianism prioritizing actions that maximize happiness.

Why might someone believe that, in some conflicts of obligations, any choice will still involve something morally regrettable?

Both obligations are meaningful, leading to moral loss when either is violated.

What is the difference between saying 'one obligation is stronger or more important' and saying 'the other obligation does not exist'?

The former acknowledges both obligations while prioritizing one; the latter denies any moral requirement of the other.

How can recognizing that obligations may conflict help us better understand moral dilemmas?

It clarifies that dilemmas arise from competing moral demands, explaining their complexity.

When two obligations conflict, what kinds of reasons might you use to justify choosing one obligation over the other?

Reasons may include the significance of harms/benefits, vulnerability of affected persons, and moral principles.