Ethics Core Concepts

Dennett’s Rules

Principles developed by philosopher Daniel Dennett to guide productive dialogue and critical thinking. repeat back what the other person said in a way they agree with, state what you learned, state what you agree with, and finally respond

Peter Boghossian’s Seven Fundamentals

Essential elements for rational discourse and argumentation, including Goals, Partnership, Rapport, Listen, Shoot the Messenger, Intentions, Walk Away.

Socratic Dialectic

A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue that stimulates critical thinking, typically involving asking and answering questions.

Euthyphro Dilemma

A philosophical question regarding whether something is moral because the gods love it or if the gods love it because it is moral.

Telos

The inherent purpose or end goal of an object or being, often discussed in virtue ethics.

Ataraxia

A state of serene calmness, a principle emphasized by Stoicism.

Theodicy

The philosophical attempt to reconcile the existence of evil with the concept of a good and omnipotent God.

Ad Hominem Fallacy

Attacking the person instead of addressing the argument in question.

Moral Relativism

The belief that what is considered morally right or wrong varies based on culture, society, or individuals.

Utilitarian Principle

The ethical theory that promotes actions that maximize happiness or well-being for the majority.

Moral Argument

The argument that objective moral values imply the existence of a moral lawgiver.

Circular Reasoning

A logical fallacy where the argument's conclusion is included within its premises.

Pragmatism

An approach that evaluates theories or beliefs based on their practical consequences and applications.

Machiavelli’s Core Idea

The belief that the ends justify the means in politics, emphasizing power over morality.

Cogito, ergo sum

René Descartes' foundational principle illustrating self-awareness: 'I think, therefore I am.'

Moral Matrices

Frameworks of values, beliefs, and social norms influencing how individuals or groups perceive moral issues, as proposed by Jonathan Haidt.

Experiential Knowledge

Knowledge gained through personal experience, which may enhance understanding of moral issues.

Harm Principle

The principle suggesting individuals should be free to act as they wish as long as their actions do not harm others.

ten rules of media hate

1. There are only two sides.

2. The two ideas are in permanent conflict.

3. Hate people, not institutions. 

4. Everything is someone else’s fault.

5. Nothing is everyone’s fault.

6. Root, don’t think. 

7. No switching teams.

8. The other side is literally Hitler.

9. In the fight against Hitler everything is permitted.

10. Feel superior