BASIC THOERIES THAT SERVE AS FOUNDATIONS OF ETHICS

What are ethical theories?

Philosophical systems that help determine what actions are right or wrong and guide moral behavior.

What are the three main branches of ethics?

• Metaethics

• Normative Ethics

• Applied Ethics

What does Metaethics study?

The nature and meaning of morality, such as what “good” or “right” means.

What is Normative Ethics?

The study of moral standards and principles that determine what people ought to do.

What is Applied Ethics?

Applying ethical theories to real-world issues like medicine, business, and environmental problems.

What is Consequentialism?

An ethical theory where the morality of an action depends on its consequences or results.

What is Utilitarianism?

A form of consequentialism that aims for the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

Who are the key philosophers of Utilitarianism?

Jeremy Bentham
John Stuart Mill

What is Deontological Ethics?

An ethical theory that focuses on duties, rules, and moral principles, regardless of consequences.

Who developed Deontology?

Immanuel Kant

What is Virtue Ethics?

An ethical theory that emphasizes good character and virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion.

Who founded Virtue Ethics?

Aristotle

What is Care Ethics?

An ethical theory that prioritizes relationships, empathy, and caring for others.

Who is known for Care Ethics?

Nel Noddings

Consequentialism focuses on what?

Results or outcomes

Deontology focuses on what?

Rules and duties

Virtue Ethics focuses on what?

Character and virtues

Care Ethics focuses on what?

Relationships and compassion

What is W. D. Ross known for?

Introduced prima facie duties—moral duties that are binding unless overridden by stronger duties.

What is Christine Korsgaard’s view on morality?

Moral rules are necessary for human freedom and autonomy.

What is Jeremy Bentham’s main principle?

Greatest happiness principle—maximize pleasure and minimize pain

What is Carol Gilligan’s main idea?

Morality is based on relationships and care, not just justice or rules.

What is Thomas Hobbes’s view of human nature?

Life in the state of nature is “war of all against all”, so social contracts are needed for peace.

What is John Locke known for?

Natural rights: life, liberty, and property.

What is Thomas Aquinas’s ethical belief?

Morality is based on natural law and the goal of life is union with God.

What is Confucius’ ethical focus?

Moral education, social harmony, and virtues like compassion and respect.

What is David Hume’s view on morality?

Morality comes from feelings (sentiments), especially empathy.

What is Socrates’ idea of virtue?

Virtue = knowledge; to know good is to do good.

What is Plato’s concept of the human person?

Dualism: body (physical) + soul (rational and eternal).

What did Aristotle say about reality?

Reality includes sensibles (perceived things) which are imperfect and changing.

What is Baruch Spinoza’s main idea?

Monism—everything is one substance (God or Nature).

What is Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz’s concept?

Reality is made of monads, independent units in harmony.

What is John Locke’s theory of knowledge?

Mind is a tabula rasa (blank slate) at birth.