Ethics Unit 3 Review

Argument

Statements that provide evidence for conclusion that are backed up by reasons

Empirical claims

The theory of knowledge being acquired through experience and observation (Hearing, seeing, touching)

virtue ethics

Choices guided by a person’s character/virtues (Aristotle)

utilitarianism ethics

choices guided by consequences and overall happiness they produce (Stuart Mill)

deontological ethics

Duty-based ethics: Choices that are guided by moral duties, principles, and intentions (Emmanuel Kant)

Kant’s goal + if he succeeds

To establish a universal ethic, where rules applied to everyone in morality is based on universal, rational principles rather than subjective happiness

Kant’s Worldview (Reason and body)

Reason: Rational, thinking, freedom, moral laws, intentions

Body: Physical needs, emotions, desire, desires, wants, pleasures, outcomes

role of reason

Recognize and understand, moral obligations, all rational beings have the capacity to understand moral laws, all rational beings are morally equal, and moral choices are guided by reason not personal desire

deontological ethics definition

duty based ethics, morality comes from an action following a moral duty, worthy one performed out of duty and respect following the moral law

whether moral actions are rare or not

True, moral actions are rare, people typically only do the right thing for personal gain, truly moral when it is performed because it is the right thing to do

importance of intention

Intention behind action determines worth, do something good for the right reason, consequences don’t determine an actions, moral worth

why it is difficult to know one’s intention

We don't always understand our own motivations. We may believe we're acting out of duty when we're actually motivated by personal benefit, emotions, or recognition. It can be difficult to separate genuine moral duty from personal desires.

complexity of intention

Actions can have multiple motivations at the same time. Someone might help another person because it's their duty AND because helping makes them feel good. Kant distinguishes acting from duty from simply acting in accordance with duty. Mixed motivations make it difficult to determine an action's true moral worth.

our ability to lie to ourselves

People can convince themselves that their intentions are morally good when they are actually motivated by selfish desires. We may justify our actions to make ourselves feel morally right. Kant believes we must critically examine our motivations rather than automatically trusting them.

Maxims, means, and ends

Maxim: The personal principle or rule that guides an individual's actions.

Means: The method used to accomplish something.

Ends: The goals or purposes we want to accomplish

hypothetical imperative

Instructions that tell us what to do to achieve a particular goal. They depend on personal desires or wants. Follow the structure: If you want X, you should do Y.

Example: if you want a good grade, you should study

The categorical imperative (two formulations)

Formulation 1: Universal Law

Only act according to a maxim that you could rationally will everyone to follow.

Ask yourself: What if everyone acted this way?

If the principle cannot work as a universal rule, it is morally unacceptable.

Formulation 2: End-in-Itself

Always treat humanity, in yourself and others, as an end and never merely as a means.

Respect people's dignity, freedom, and ability to make rational decisions.

Never manipulate or exploit someone simply to achieve your own goals.

why human beings are ends in themselves

Humans possess reason and the ability to make rational decisions. This gives human beings inherent dignity and moral worth. People should never be treated merely as tools for someone else's benefit. Everyone deserves respect regardless of their usefulness to others.

how we decide what is ethical for Kant (Using the categorical imperative)

1. Identify your maxim (the principle behind your action).

2. Universal Law: Ask whether everyone could rationally follow that principle.

3. End-in-Itself: Ask whether your action respects other people's dignity and autonomy or uses them merely as a means.

4. If your maxim fails either formulation, the action is morally unacceptable.

four examples of duties given by Kant

1. do not commit suicide (perfect duty to yourself)

We have a moral obligation to preserve ourselves rather than treat our own lives as disposable.

2. do not make false promises (perfect duty to others)

We have a responsibility to develop our abilities rather than neglect our potential.

3. Neglecting your talents (imperfect duty to yourself)

We cannot deceive or manipulate others for our own benefit.

4. Benefiting others (imperfect duty to others)

We have a moral responsibility to care about others and contribute to their well-being.