Ethics: Introduction to Moral Philosophy CH 1-2

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts, definitions, and theories in ethics and moral philosophy.

Ethics

The study of moral principles that govern human behavior.

Moral Philosophy

The branch of philosophy that contemplates what is right and wrong.

Metaethics

Ethical studies that explore the nature of moral judgments and structures of moral concepts.

Normative Ethics

Ethical thinking that guides human behavior and deals with desirable attitudes.

Deontology

An ethical theory that emphasizes duties and obligations over the consequences of actions.

Absolute duty

A duty that is binding under all circumstances, such as the duty not to kill an innocent.

Prima facie duty

A duty that is in accordance with the current situation, determined by its circumstances.

Conditional duty

A duty that evolves from certain conditions being met.

Teleology

An ethical theory that determines the morality of an action based on its outcomes.

Utilitarianism

An ethical theory that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness.

Act Utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that focuses on the consequences of individual actions.

Rule Utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that emphasizes following rules that lead to the greatest happiness.

Kantian Ethics

An ethical theory that posits that moral acts are intrinsically right, regardless of consequences.

Virtue Ethics

An ethical theory focusing on character traits and morality based on virtue.

Cardinal Virtues

Key virtues including Temperance, Justice, Courage, and Wisdom.

Theological Virtues

Virtues that include Faith, Hope, and Charity.

Rawls’s Theory of Justice

A theory that emphasizes social justice achieved through impartial agreement among individuals.

Beneficence

The ethical principle of doing good or promoting the well-being of others.

Nonmaleficence

The ethical principle of not causing harm to others.

Justice

Fair and equitable distribution of benefits and resources.

Veracity

The ethical practice of telling the truth and providing full disclosure.

Fidelity

The ethical principle of being faithful to commitments and obligations.

Paternalism

Intervening in a person's decision-making for their own good.

Utility

The usefulness of an action, fundamental to utilitarianism.