Moral Theory

Moral Relativism

The view that morality varies according to culture or individual opinion, suggesting that moral principles are not objective.

Cultural Relativism

The subtype of moral relativism that asserts morality is relative to cultural opinion.

Moral Relativism

The view that morality varies according to culture or individual opinion, suggesting that moral principles are not objective.

Cultural Relativism

The subtype of moral relativism that asserts morality is relative to cultural opinion.

Subjectivism

The subtype of moral relativism that asserts morality is relative to individual opinion.

Critical Thinking

The proper assessment of reasons and claims to determine their validity.

Ethics

A branch of philosophy that deals with the moral values involved in human conduct.

Divine Command Theory

The view that moral principles are determined by God's commands.

Utilitarianism

A consequentialist theory that states the morality of an action is determined by its ability to maximize overall happiness.

Act Utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that assesses individual actions to see if they maximize happiness.

Rule Utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that assesses whether following a rule will maximize happiness for everyone.

Kantian Ethics

The view that the truth of moral principles is determined by rationality, emphasizing consistency and respect for humanity.

Prima Facie Duties

Duties that are considered in our actions, based on various factors such as others' actions and previous actions.

Humanity Rule

Kant's principle that states we must always treat humanity as an end, never merely as a means.

Virtue Ethics

The ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of character traits conducive to human flourishing.

Non-maleficence

A prima facie duty not to harm others.

Beneficence

A prima facie duty to do good to others.

Justice

A prima facie duty to distribute goods and harms based on merit.

Self-perfection

A prima facie duty to improve oneself.

Foundation Argument (for Divine Command Theory)

The argument that asserts Divine Command Theory provides a foundation for ethics, claiming it is the true moral theory.

Atrocity Objection

The objection that claims if moral relativism is true, then moral atrocities cannot be considered wrong.

Disagreement Argument

The argument that claims because people disagree about morality, it must be a matter of opinion.

No Proof Argument

The argument that morality cannot be proven, thus claiming it is merely a matter of opinion.

Motivation Argument

The argument that asserts only Divine Command Theory provides a motive to always be moral due to divine punishment or reward.