Ethics Exam 2

What is the only thing that is good without qualification, according to Kant?

The good will, which acts out of duty and adheres to moral law.

What is the difference between acting “according to duty” and “for the sake of duty”?

Acting "according to duty" means following moral laws, whereas "for the sake of duty" entails doing so out of respect for those laws and moral obligation.

What is a hypothetical imperative?

A conditional command based on desires (e.g., “If you want X, do Y”).

What is the categorical imperative?

An unconditional moral law that applies to all rational beings.

What is the first formulation of the categorical imperative?

Act only on maxims you can will to become universal laws.

What is the second formulation of the categorical imperative?

Treat humanity always as an end, never merely as a means.

What does Kant say about the moral status of animals?

Animals are not moral persons; we have indirect duties to them.

What is speciesism, according to Peter Singer?

Discrimination against beings based on their species.

What makes a being morally considerable for Singer?

Sentience—the capacity to suffer or feel pleasure.

What is a “subject-of-a-life” according to Tom Regan?

A being with beliefs, desires, memory, and a sense of future.

What’s the difference between moral agents and moral patients?

Agents can make moral decisions; patients deserve moral concern but cannot act morally.

What is biocentrism?

The view that all living beings have intrinsic moral value.

What is egalitarian biocentrism?

The belief that all life forms are morally equal.

Who proposed the idea of “Reverence for Life”?

Albert Schweitzer

What is the “will-to-live”?

The drive in all living beings to continue existing.

What is the basic moral principle of Reverence for Life?

Respect all life and avoid harm unless absolutely necessary.

What is a common criticism of Reverence for Life?

It may be too demanding or impractical in real-world situations.