Midterm Exam Review: Ethics and Human Nature

A set of informative flashcards created from lecture notes covering key concepts related to ethics, human nature, and the implications for personal and social behavior.

What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that you use to introduce yourself and communicate your value and qualifications.

What are the main qualities of a good elevator pitch?

A good elevator pitch should include clarity, conciseness, a memorable story that showcases your value, and should be adaptable for different time limits.

What is the difference between ethics and morals?

Morals refer to personal beliefs about right and wrong, while ethics refers to a structured system of principles that guide behavior, accessible to everyone.

Provide an example of being ethical but not moral.

Being honest at work without maximizing advancement for one's family.

Provide an example of being moral but not ethical.

Lying and cheating to gain advancement at work for one's family.

What is 'human nature' in the context of ethics?

Human nature refers to the inherent characteristics of humans that are shaped by both biological and social influences, which can aid in establishing ethical norms.

What did Socrates suggest about the management of impulses?

Socrates suggested that reason should guide and manage impulses and appetites to live a rational and ethical life.

What is the relationship between the individual and social health per Socrates?

Socrates believed that individual and social health are interrelated; serving the community serves the interest of the individual.

What is Aristotle's view on the executive function?

Aristotle recognized the limitations of the executive function, emphasizing the need to create habits that support ethical decisions.

What is the relevance of mirror neurons in ethics?

Mirror neurons are related to empathy and the ability to feel what others feel, promoting altruistic behavior.

Define reciprocal altruism.

Reciprocal altruism is the practice of helping others with the expectation that they will help you in return at some point.

How does culture play a role in ethics according to the lecture notes?

Culture transmits knowledge, beliefs, and practices across generations, shaping ethical norms and community behavior.

What is the 'dark triad' in personality traits?

The dark triad consists of psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism, which are typically characterized by manipulative and self-serving behaviors.

What is stakeholder theory in business ethics?

Stakeholder theory suggests that companies should consider the interests of all stakeholders, not just shareholders, when making decisions.

What is the significance of free speech in the argument by J.S. Mill?

J.S. Mill argued that free speech is vital for the pursuit of truth, as diverse perspectives can enrich understanding and improve decision-making.

What is Aristotle's concept of Eudaimonia?

Eudaimonia is the ideal life achieved through practical wisdom and moral virtues that lead to happiness and fulfillment.

How does Aristotle categorize values?

Aristotle categorizes values into three types: intrinsic goods, goods that are good in themselves and for something else, and goods that are only valuable as means to an end.

What happens when humans are deprived of social interaction according to the lecture?

Deprivation of social interaction can lead to severe psychological effects, including sociopathy and even death in extreme cases.

What is the role of culture in ethical systems?

Culture is a repository of knowledge and values, shaping the ethical frameworks within which individuals and communities operate.

What is the main distinction between descriptive and instrumental stakeholder theory?

Descriptive theory identifies stakeholders, while instrumental theory prioritizes stakeholders based on their relation to shareholder interests.

What did Thrasymachus argue regarding justice?

Thrasymachus argued that justice serves the interests of the stronger, implying that ethical norms are constructs of power.

How can you identify practical ways to live virtuously?

Identifying virtues involves understanding and applying principles that promote the good life through consistent ethical behavior.

Why is willpower considered limited?

Willpower is limited because it gets exhausted throughout the day, making it harder to make rational decisions.