Critique of Ethical Theories: Utilitarianism, Deontological Ethics, Virtue Ethics, and Natural Law Ethics

These flashcards review key concepts in ethical theories, including criticisms and fundamental principles of Utilitarianism, Deontological Ethics, Virtue Ethics, and Natural Law Ethics.

What is Utilitarianism as an ethical theory?

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that suggests actions are right if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

What is the main distinction between Bentham's and Mill's utilitarianism?

Bentham's utilitarianism is based on the principle of utility and quantifies happiness, while Mill's utilitarianism emphasizes qualitative differences in pleasures.

What is the criticism of utilitarianism based on 'the role of intentions'?

The criticism suggests that utilitarianism ignores the importance of the agent's intentions behind actions, focusing solely on outcomes.

Describe the 'big-foot Bill' objection to utilitarianism.

The objection illustrates a situation where an action may be deemed acceptable by utilitarian standards, but intuitively feels morally wrong due to specific circumstances, such as unjust treatment.

Is Kantian ethics objective or relative?

Kantian ethics is considered an objective theory of ethics.

Define 'Deontological approach' to ethics.

A deontological approach to ethics emphasizes the importance of duty and adherence to rules or obligations, irrespective of the consequences.

What does Kantian ethics emphasize regarding moral duty and a good will?

Kantian ethics emphasizes that moral duty is determined by reason and that a good will is the only intrinsic good.

What role does reason play in Kantian ethics?

Reason is central to Kantian ethics as it allows individuals to determine moral duties and formulate maxims.

What is the difference between hypothetical and categorical imperatives?

Hypothetical imperatives are conditional commands based on desires, while categorical imperatives are unconditional moral laws applicable to all rational beings.

What is a moral maxim according to Kant?

A moral maxim is a subjective principle that an individual uses to determine their actions.

What is the Categorical Imperative?

The Categorical Imperative is a foundational principle in Kantian ethics that requires one to act according to maxims that could be universalized.

What is Kant's first formulation of the Categorical Imperative?

Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.

What is the 'How specific should the maxim of action be?' objection to Kantian ethics?

This objection questions whether Kant's ethics can provide clear guidance in varying moral situations due to the ambiguity of maxims.

What does the 'Where is the moral motivation?' objection to Kantian ethics suggest?

This objection argues that Kantian ethics may not adequately account for the emotional component of moral actions and motivations.

Explain the 'Where is the love?' objection to Kantian ethics.

This objection highlights the lack of emphasis on love or compassion in Kant's ethical framework, which some view as essential to morality.

According to virtue ethics, what should be the focus of an ethical theory?

Virtue ethics focuses on the development of good character traits and the virtues that enable individuals to live a flourishing life.

According to virtue ethics, how should one answer the question, 'What makes for a good life?'

One should consider the cultivation of virtues and character traits that lead to achieving one's potential and happiness.

What does the term 'telos' mean and how is it connected to virtue ethics?

Telos refers to the purpose or end goal of a thing; in virtue ethics, it signifies the ultimate goal of human life as achieving virtue.

What are the terms used for good and bad character traits in virtue ethics?

Good character traits are called virtues, whereas bad character traits are called vices.

Who are the ancient philosophers identified as Virtue Ethicists?

Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are recognized as key Virtue Ethicists.

How is Aristotle's account of virtue understood as a mean between extremes?

Aristotle posits that a virtue is the mean between two vices, one of excess and one of deficiency.

What is the 'trouble providing guidance in concrete situations' objection to Virtue Ethics?

This objection points out that virtue ethics may fail to give clear moral guidance in specific situations, leaving individuals uncertain on how to act.

What do the terms 'synchronic' and 'diachronic' mean in metaethics?

Synchronic refers to studying moral principles at a specific point in time, while diachronic concerns the development and changes of moral ideas over time.

Explain a major similarity and difference between Virtue Ethics and Natural Law Ethics.

Similarity: Both emphasize the importance of character and moral development. Difference: Virtue ethics focuses on character traits, while natural law ethics emphasizes moral laws derived from nature.

Define Natural Law Ethics.

Natural Law Ethics posits that moral principles are inherent in human nature and can be discovered through reason.