Ethics: Stoicism, Hedonism, Consequentialism, and Well-Being

These flashcards cover key ethical theories discussed in the lecture, including Stoicism, Hedonism, Consequentialism, and Aristotle's views on well-being.

What do Stoics claim is intrinsically good?

The Stoics claim that virtue is the only intrinsic good.

What is Stoicism's view on things like wealth and beauty?

According to Stoics, things such as life, health, beauty, wealth, and good reputation are considered 'indifferent'.

What is the basic idea of Hedonism?

Hedonism holds that pleasure is the only intrinsic good and that pain is the only intrinsic bad.

According to Hedonism, what are intrinsically good and bad?

Pleasure is intrinsically good while pain is intrinsically bad.

What is an objection to Hedonism based on debauchery?

It argues that if Hedonism is true, then a life of debauchery should be considered a good life.

How would Epicurus respond to the objection against Hedonism?

Epicurus would argue that true pleasure comes from moderation and the pursuit of intellectual and moral pleasures, not just sensual ones.

What factor does J.S. Mill consider when evaluating pleasure?

Mill suggests that the quality of pleasure, not just its quantity, is important, and that higher pleasures (intellectual) are superior to lower pleasures (sensual).

What is a 'rational desire' according to Richard Brandt?

A rational desire is a desire that is consistent with a person’s rational deliberation and understanding.

What is the argument against Brandt's theory based on Ratzo's case?

The case illustrates that someone can have desires that are irrational or lead to harmful outcomes, challenging Brandt's view of intrinsic value.

What does consequentialism assert about moral actions?

Consequentialism asserts that an action is morally right if it leads to the best overall consequences.

Why should a consequentialist not claim that an action is right if it maximizes happiness?

Because it may overlook justice and individual rights in favor of overall happiness.

What is the difference between act utilitarianism and rule utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism evaluates the morality of individual actions, while rule utilitarianism evaluates the morality of rules that govern behavior.

How does Mill respond to the objection that Utilitarianism encourages selfishness?

Mill argues that by promoting the greatest happiness for the greatest number, Utilitarianism inherently discourages selfishness.

What does Mill mean by 'utility'?

Utility refers to the overall happiness or satisfaction that an action produces.

What is the ultimate end of all human actions according to Aristotle?

The ultimate end of all human actions is to achieve eudaimonia, or human flourishing.

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic goodness?

Intrinsic goodness is valuable in itself, while extrinsic goodness is valuable for the consequences it produces.

What relevance does money have according to Aristotle?

Money is considered good as a means to achieve other goods, not as an intrinsic good.

Can something be both intrinsically and extrinsically good according to Aristotle?

Yes, something can have both intrinsic value and extrinsic value, such as a good reputation.

What criticism could be made against the theory that intrinsic value is proportional to wealth?

A relevant counterexample is a person with little wealth but significant personal fulfillment or happiness.

Does Mill's Utilitarianism require calculating utilities before action?

Mill's theory does not require calculations before every action, but it does emphasize the consideration of consequences.

What objection does a case about a serial killer raise against Consequentialism?

It suggests that a strict focus on outcomes can lead to morally unacceptable conclusions, such as justifying harm for greater good.

How does J.S. Mill argue in favor of equal rights for women using Utilitarianism?

Mill argues that granting women equal rights would maximize overall happiness and promote social progress.

How does J.S. Mill view representative democracy's application to colonized peoples?

Mill believed that representative democracy was not applicable to those he deemed less civilized, such as colonized societies.

Does Mill's reasoning for colonialism rely on race theory?

Yes, Mill's reasoning reflects racial superiority claims; however, he later argues for equal treatment based on utilitarian ethics.