ethics midterm

Ethical Relativism

The belief that morality is shaped by cultural, social, and personal perspectives and may differ across societies.

Moral Absolutism

The belief that certain moral principles are universal and apply to all people regardless of culture or circumstances.

Ethics

The study of moral principles that guide human behavior and decision-making.

Rejection of Universal Moral Standards

A feature of ethical relativism that denies the existence of objective and universal moral rules.

Cultural Determination of Ethics

The idea that each culture defines what is morally right or wrong.

Influence of Societal Norms

The belief that moral judgments are shaped by the traditions, values, and history of a society.

Justification of Unethical Practices

A criticism of ethical relativism where harmful actions may be accepted if a culture approves them.

Prevention of Moral Progress

A criticism that ethical relativism may stop societies from questioning harmful traditions.

Moral Inconsistency

A problem where different cultural values can cause conflicts in determining what is right or wrong.

Universal Moral Principles

The belief in moral absolutism that some ethical rules apply equally to all people.

Independence from Cultural Influence

The idea that morality exists beyond cultural traditions and social beliefs.

Inherent Right and Wrong

The belief that certain actions are always morally right or wrong regardless of context.

Lack of Flexibility

A criticism of moral absolutism that it can ignore cultural diversity and complex situations.

Difficulty in Resolving Moral Dilemmas

A criticism that absolutism may struggle when moral principles conflict.

Interpretation Variation

The idea that different cultures may interpret universal moral rules differently.

Free Will

The ability of individuals to make choices independently without being fully controlled by external forces.

Autonomy

The capacity of individuals to control and make their own decisions.

Ethical Responsibility

The ability to recognize right and wrong and be responsible for one’s actions.

Independence

The idea that human actions are not completely determined by biological or environmental factors.

External Influences

Factors such as upbringing, genetics, and social norms that may affect decisions.

Neuroscience Influence

Scientific findings suggesting brain activity may influence decisions before conscious awareness.

Extreme Situations

Conditions such as coercion or mental illness that may limit a person's free will.

Moral Responsibility

The obligation to act according to ethical principles and accept the consequences of one's actions.

Agency

The ability to make choices and control one’s actions.

Accountability

Being responsible for the outcomes and consequences of one's actions.

Intentionality

The importance of a person's intention when determining moral responsibility.

Awareness

Understanding the consequences and ethical impact of actions before making decisions.

Capacity

The ability to understand right from wrong when making choices.

Determinism

The theory that all events and human actions are caused by prior conditions and influences.

Causality of Actions

The principle that every action results from preceding causes.

Shaping of Behavior

The idea that biological, environmental, and social factors influence human behavior.

Questioning Free Will

The belief that free will may be an illusion because decisions are influenced by past experiences.

Moral Accountability Problem

The concern that if actions are determined by external forces, holding individuals responsible becomes difficult.

Complex Decision Making

The view that human decisions involve both external influences and personal choice.

Capacity for Change

The ability of individuals to adapt and modify behavior over time.

Business Ethics

The moral principles that guide the behavior and decision-making of businesses.

Honesty and Transparency

The principle that businesses should provide truthful information to stakeholders.

Fair Treatment of Employees

Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and equal opportunities for workers.

Consumer Protection

The responsibility of businesses to ensure product safety and avoid deceptive practices.

Corporate Governance

The system of leadership, accountability, and ethical management within a company.

Corporate Social Responsibility

The responsibility of businesses to contribute positively to society and the environment.

Environmental Sustainability

Practices that reduce environmental harm and conserve natural resources.

Community Engagement

The involvement of businesses in supporting local communities and social development.

Ethical Labor Practices

Ensuring fair treatment, safe conditions, and respect for workers’ rights.

Philanthropy

The act of donating resources or profits to support social causes and charitable activities.

Consumer Trust

The confidence customers have in companies that behave ethically.

Employee Morale

The level of satisfaction and motivation among workers due to fair treatment.

Investor Confidence

The trust investors place in companies with strong ethical practices.

Long Term Profitability

Sustainable business success achieved through responsible and ethical practices.

Environmental Ethics

The branch of philosophy that studies the moral relationship between humans and the natural environment.

Conservation

The protection and careful management of natural resources and ecosystems.

Sustainability

The responsible use of resources to ensure they remain available for future generations.

Environmental Justice

The fair treatment of all people regarding environmental policies and impacts.

Anthropocentrism

An environmental ethical perspective that values nature primarily for its usefulness to humans.

Biocentrism

An ethical view that recognizes the intrinsic value of all living organisms.

Ecocentrism

An ethical perspective that prioritizes the well-being of entire ecosystems.

Deforestation

The large-scale clearing of forests that damages ecosystems and biodiversity.

Climate Change

Long-term changes in global temperatures and weather patterns caused mainly by human activities.

Water Pollution

The contamination of water bodies by harmful substances.

Overfishing

The excessive catching of fish that leads to depletion of fish populations.

Animal Rights

The belief that animals deserve moral consideration and protection from harm.

Sustainable Development

Development that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Economic Sustainability

Economic growth that does not cause long-term harm to society or the environment.

Environmental Sustainability Pillar

Protecting ecosystems and natural resources while supporting human needs.

Social Sustainability

Promoting equality, fairness, and access to essential services such as education and healthcare