Module 8 – Applied Ethics

18 question-and-answer flashcards summarizing key concepts, definitions, examples, and decision-making approaches from Module 7 on Applied Ethics.

What are the two main branches of ethics traditionally studied before applied ethics?

Normative ethics and metaethics.

How does applied ethics differ from normative and metaethics?

Applied ethics focuses on real-life moral questions and controversial issues, whereas normative ethics identifies general principles of right and wrong and metaethics studies the meaning and status of moral concepts.

Give a concise definition of applied ethics.

A discipline of philosophy that applies ethical theory to concrete, real-world situations.

Name three moral issues commonly examined in applied ethics.

Any three of: abortion, euthanasia, poverty relief, premarital sex, the death penalty, LGBTQ+ rights, war tactics, censorship, white lies, etc.

Why are the boundaries between applied, normative, and metaethics often described as blurry?

Because solving specific moral issues (applied) usually depends on general moral principles (normative) and deeper questions about rights or moral facts (metaethical).

How is applied ethics useful in public policy?

It provides structured questions and moral analysis that help lawmakers balance laws, politics, and arbitration on contested issues.

Provide an example of a public-policy question that belongs to applied ethics.

“Is affirmative action right or wrong?” (Other acceptable examples: “Is euthanasia immoral?” “What are human rights, and how do we determine them?”)

What is an ethical dilemma?

A situation involving an apparent conflict between moral imperatives such that following one principle seems to violate another.

What makes an ethical dilemma especially challenging?

There is no obvious solution that fully complies with all accepted moral norms.

Why are ethical dilemmas sometimes called ethical paradoxes?

Because paradox—two seemingly incompatible moral requirements—plays a central role in the debate and forces deeper analysis.

List three general strategies for resolving an ethical dilemma.

(1) Refute the dilemma by analyzing it closely, (2) choose the greater good or lesser evil (value-theory approach), (3) identify alternative solutions that avoid the conflict.

What are the four approaches to ethical decision making discussed in the lecture?

Ends-based (utilitarian), rules-based (deontological), virtue-based, and care-based.

Describe the ends-based (utilitarian) approach.

An action is right if it produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

Describe the rules-based (deontological) approach.

Ethical behavior means following established rules or principles regardless of the outcome.

Describe the virtue-based approach to ethics.

Actions should align with exemplary human virtues and promote the full development of good character.

Describe the care-based approach to ethics.

Act with concern and empathy for others, following the principle of treating people as you would like to be treated.