Philosophical Theorists

What is Aristotle’s key idea in virtue ethics?

The “Golden Mean”- virtue lies between two extremes ( coward and being recklessness)

How does Aristotle believe we can achieve being good?

By forming good habits thus making someone “good”.

What did Aristotle believe was the goal of life?

Eudaimonia, flourishing life, achieved through practicing virtues, making habits.

What is Kant’s famous principle?

The “Categorial Imperative” - follow the rules you’d want everyone to follow. 

How did Kant view consequences in morality?

Irrelevant- morality depends on duty and intention, not outcomes.

Who made the term “altruism”?

Auguste Comte

What did Comte believe about moral duty?

Staying true to others not just oneself ( putting others before yourself).

Who are often associated with egoism?

Thomas Hobbes ( Psychological) and Ayn Rand (ethical egoism)

What did Hobbes argue about human nature?

People are motivated by self-interest and desire for survival.

What did Ayn argue in her objectivism ( Psychological Egoism)?

People should act in rational self interest and altruism is harmful.

Who founded utilitarianism?

Jeremy Bentham (classical)

What is Bentham’s key principle?

Greatest happiness for the majority

How did Bentham propose measuring happiness?

Hedonic calculus- a method to count and compare how much pleasure or pain an action causes.

How did John Mill refine Bentham’s utilitarianism?

He distinguished between higher (intellectual) and lower (physical) pleasures.

Why did Mill emphasize quality over quantity of pleasure?

Because some forms of happiness such as education and art are more valuable than simple pleasures.

What was Mil’s goal for utilitarianism?

To defend individual liberty while still trying to promote the common good.