ethics exam 1

Descriptive Claims

Statements about how the world is; they describe facts or observations.

Normative Claims

Statements about how the world ought to be; they express values or judgments.

Ethical Normative Claims

Normative claims that pertain to moral rightness/wrongness and duties or obligations.

Cultural Relativism

The view that moral truths are relative to particular cultures.

Pros of Cultural Relativism

Promotes tolerance and discourages ethnocentrism.

Cons of Cultural Relativism

Makes moral progress and criticism of cultures impossible.

Socratic Method

A form of dialogue based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking.

Socratic Irony

Feigning ignorance to elicit information and reveal inconsistencies in an argument.

Divine Command Theory

The idea that an action's moral status is determined by God's commands.

Euthyphro Dilemma

A problem for Divine Command Theory questioning whether good is defined by God's will or exists independently.

Gadfly

Socrates' self-description of his role in challenging and provoking citizens to think critically.

Apology in Plato

A defense speech; not an expression of remorse.

Oracle's Proclamation

Socrates believed his wisdom came from recognizing his own ignorance.

Reasons Not to Fear Death

Death is either a dreamless sleep or a migration of the soul to converse with the wise.

A Good Man Cannot Be Harmed

True harm comes only to one's soul or character, not external factors.

Pluralistic Approach to Ethical Theories

Utilizing multiple ethical frameworks for understanding moral problems.

Talking Past Each Other

Miscommunication in ethical discussions due to differing frameworks and definitions.

Kyte's Three Features of Truth

Responsibility, Acknowledgement, and Discernment in seeking truth.

Value of Reading Old Texts

Provides context for contemporary ideas and challenges modern assumptions.

Kyte's Warning

Ethical reasoning may increase disrespect when used as a weapon rather than for understanding.

Goal of the Four Way Method

Facilitate comprehensive ethical decision-making and dialogue.

Moral Responsibility for Beliefs

We are responsible for our beliefs and perceptions, especially when they are harmful or based on misinformation.