Natural Law Theory and Ethics

Flashcards summarizing key concepts related to Natural Law Theory and various ethical frameworks.

Normative Ethics

The study of what constitutes the right moral action and the methods to discover it.

Meta Ethics

The study of ethical language and concepts, defining terms like good and bad.

Applied Ethics

The application of moral theories to real-world issues.

Absolutist

A moral judgement that relies upon a fixed truth without regard for consequences.

Relativist

An approach that considers specific situations and circumstances; no fixed moral rules.

Subjectivist

Moral judgements based on personal opinion rather than fixed rules.

Objectivist

Moral judgements made on an impartial absolute value system.

Teleological

An ethical approach focused on the end result of actions.

Deontological

An ethical approach focused on the intention behind actions.

Natural Law Theory

The belief that God or a higher power has ordered the universe in a certain way, and that humans must conform to this order.

Eudaimonia

A term from Aristotle referring to happiness or the contentment achieved when something fulfills its purpose.

Five Primary Precepts

Aquinas' moral guidelines: preservation of life, human procreation, the advancement of knowledge, living in harmony, and worship of God.

Doctrine of Double Effect

The ethical principle stating that it is permissible to do something morally good, even if it has a morally bad side effect, provided the bad side effect isn't intended.

Cardinal Virtues

According to Aquinas, the four key virtues: Justice, Prudence, Temperance, and Fortitude.

Vice

Immoral behavior or quality that prevents adherence to moral principles.

Naturalistic Fallacy

The logical error of deriving what ought to be from what is, particularly in relation to nature.