Ethics and Moral Philosophy Lecture Review

A set of practice flashcards covering argument theory, fallacies, and various ethical frameworks from Exam $$1$$ study notes.

Genuine moral dilemma

An instance where it is impossible to do the right thing.

Coher's models of arguments: Arguments as war

A model where the goal is to defeat the opponent; winning is defined as proving the other wrong.

Coher's models of arguments: Arguments as proof

A model that demonstrates a conclusion from evidence, where success is defined as good reasoning.

Coher's models of arguments: Arguments as performance

A model centered on communicating effectively with an audience.

Critiques of war metaphor

The focus is placed on winning rather than the truth.

Good argument as proof

Requires a clear claim, evidence, and consistency.

Ad populum

A bad argument based on the idea that something is good because the majority believe it.

Slippery slope fallacy

A fallacy where one event leads to an extreme consequence.

Naturalistic Fallacy

The claim that natural equals morally good.

Hasty generalization

Reaching a broad conclusion from small evidence.

Equivocation

A word with multiple meanings used in a misleading way.

Moral dumbfounding

Views that are based on gut or instinct.

Consequentalism

A theory that determines right or wrong from the consequence.

Act vs. Rule in Consequentalism

The distinction between the action itself versus the rules followed.

Utalitarianism

Action determined by happiness.

Khant

Ethical view focusing on unique value, dignity, treating people with respect, and absolute constraints (things to never do).

Virtue

Character traits that are desirable to have.

Vice

Character traits that are undesirable to have.

Aristotle

Philosopher who believed virtue lies between vices.

Particularism

The view that nothing all right actions have in common.

Generalism

An approach emphasizing breadth rather than depth.

Ross's prima facie duties

Fidelity, gratitude, resparation, justice, self-improvement, beneficenice, and non-maleficence.

Ross's values

Specific indicators listed as virtue, justice, knowledge, and pleasure.