Ethics Final

Virtue Ethics

A moral philosophy that emphasizes being a good person rather than merely following rules.

Moral Virtues

Traits like kindness and bravery that contribute to moral character.

Intellectual Virtues

Traits like clarity of thinking and wisdom that enhance cognitive abilities.

Truly Virtuous Act Criteria

1. one must know it’s right,

2. do it because it’s right

3. have a good character.

Doctrine of the Mean

The idea that virtue lies between extremes, such as courage being balanced between fear and recklessness.

Courage

A virtue; the balance between being too scared and too reckless.

Generosity

A virtue; the balance between being stingy and being wasteful.

No Mean for Bad Acts

Some actions, like cheating or stealing, are always considered wrong.

Destruction of Character

Engaging in bad actions frequently can damage one’s moral identity.

Importance of Upbringing

The early influence of family and society is crucial for learning to be good.

Eudaimonia

The Greek term for happiness, signifying living well rather than just feeling good.

Virtue and Happiness

A virtuous life over time leads to genuine happiness and meaning.

Problem of Guidance in Virtue Ethics

Virtue ethics struggles to provide clear guidance on actions, focusing instead on being.

Criticism of Virtue Ethics: Too Fun?

Some critics argue that it presents being good as too enjoyable, neglecting self-control and sacrifice.

External Factors in Virtue Ethics

Questions arise about whether one can be virtuous in the face of poverty or misfortune.

Hursthouse on Abortion

A stance that emphasizes caring and responsibility over mere rights, calling for virtuous consideration.

The Good Will

A concept in virtue ethics that emphasizes acting with the right intention and moral purpose, focusing on the intrinsic value of good character.

Acting From Duty vs In Conformity with Duty

from duty means doing it because it’s right

in conformity means it looks right but isn't done for the right reason.

Hypothetical Imperative

Tells you what to do if you want something, (if-then)

Categorical Imperative

Rule that tells you what to do no matter what

Formula of universal law

Act like your rule (maxim) should become rule for everyone

Universal Law Procedure

1. What’s your reason (maxim)?

2. Could everyone do it?

3. If yes, it’s okay.

4. If no, don’t do it.

Loan & Help Example (Universal Law)

Don’t lie to get a loan—if everyone lied, loans wouldn’t exist!
We should help others because we’d want help too.

Kant’s Insight

It’s unfair to act in ways we don’t want others to act toward us

Formula of humanity

Always treat people like they matter (ends), not just like tools to get what you want (mere means)

Means vs Mere Means

Means- using someone for specefic purpose which can be okay

Mere Means- using for one’s benefit, doesn’t consider the well being of the other

Positive & Negative Argument with Humanity

Negative: Don’t use people wrongly.
Positive: Help people live good, free lives.

Inquiring Murderer

Kant says telling the truth is more important even if it hurts someone.

Absolute vs. Moderate Deontology

Absolute: Never break the rule.
Moderate: Maybe break it if the cost is huge.

False Positives & Negatives

Kant’s rules can sometimes say something’s wrong when it seems right—or say it’s right when it seems wrong.

One Thought too Many

Sometimes people overthink morality instead of doing the right thing

Nonhuman Animals

Kant says we shouldn’t hurt animals as it harms humanity

O'Neill's Ethics

Based on Kant’s idea, emphasizing respect for individuals rather than using them.

Lifeboat Ethics

A metaphor by Hardin where wealthy nations are likened to people in a lifeboat, suggesting that helping the poor may lead to the loss of resources.

Problems with Lifeboat Ethics

Argues that helping does not always have negative consequences and that wealthy nations may exploit poorer ones.

Singer’s Argument on Famine Relief

if we can prevent suffering without harming ourselves, we have a moral obligation to do so.

Singer vs. Hardin

Singer advocates for significant aid, while Hardin warns about potential repercussions.

Government Aid Problems

Highlights that aid may benefit corrupt leaders rather than the intended beneficiaries.

Project Food Aid

Charitable food distribution that may inadvertently harm local agriculture and lead to dependency.

Superficial vs. Genuine Aid Actions

Superficial- actions that aren’t helpful in the long run, though they may look good

Genuine Aid- actions that are focused on results not looking good, long term positive impact

Formula of Humanity in Aid

Emphasizes the importance of respecting the dignity of poor countries rather than exploiting them.

Grain Merchant Example

Selling food is ethical, but dishonestly inflating prices is wrong.

Justice vs. Beneficence

Justice- fairness, treat people equally

Beneficence- duty to do good, promote well being

Finite Rationality & Autonomy

Explains that poverty limits individuals' freedom and power due to lack of information.

Duties of Justice in Global Poverty

Encompasses ethical obligations like no price gouging or corruption in aid dealings.

Kantian vs. Utilitarian Help

Utilitarian- focus on overall happiness, minimize suffering

Kantian- respect for individual dignity, and moral principles