Terms I
A philosophical theory that states that moral statements are based on individual opinions and experiences, and that there are no objective moral truths.
What is Ethical Subjectivism?
Philosopher who believed that happiness, or eudaimonia is the highest good that humans can achieve. Invented the "golden mean" where each virtue is the "mean" of excess and deficiency.
Who is Aristotle?
Philosopher that created Utilitarian Ethics, which is the moral framework that states "any action is right insofar as it increases happiness, and wrong insofar as it increases pain."
Who is Bentham?
The theoretical agreement, either explicit or implicit, between individuals within a society that outlines the rights and responsibilities each person has, essentially defining the rules and expectations people must follow in exchange for the benefits of living in a community, including protection from the government. Hobbes talked about this concept in Leviathan.
What is the Social Contract?
The normative ethical theory that the morality of an action should be based on whether that action itself is right or wrong under a series of rules and principles, rather than based on the consequences of the action.
What is Deontology?
A philosophical theory that morality is relative to the norms of a culture or society.
What is Ethical Relativism?
Philosopher that rejected Divine Command Theory and instead believed that there are categorical imperatives that can be reasoned. These are commands or moral laws all person must follow, regardless of their desires or extenuating circumstances. Developing good will means to act solely out of a sense of duty.
Who is Kant?
Philosopher that said "actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote overall human happiness". This philosopher also believed that principles of utility should be applied to non-human animals.
Who is Mill?
The view that ethical and social standards reflect the cultural context from which they are derived.
What is Cultural Relativism?
An explanation of something that refers to its end, purpose, or goal.
What is Teleology?
A philosophical theory that states that certain actions are always right or wrong, regardless of the situation or outcome.
What is Ethical Absolutism?
Philosopher that believed "the will to power" is the fundamental driving force within all living beings, essentially a desire to exert power over oneself and one's environment, seen as the primary motivation behind human actions and ambitions. This philosopher also developed the "super man" concept which represents a shift away from Christianity and manifests the grounded human ideal.
Who is Nietzsche?
Philosopher that believed people have responsibility for their choices and that their choices can affect all of humankind. This burden of responsibility can cause great anxiety.
Who is Sartre?
An ethical theory according to which moral decision making should be guided entirely by self-interest.
What is Ethical Egoism?
The doctrine that the morality of an action is to be judged solely by its consequences.
What is Consequentialism?
A philosophical theory that states that human actions are caused by prior events, and that free will and moral responsibility are illusions.
What is Ethical Determinism?
Philosopher that divided society into two groups: Proletariat and Bourgeoise. The Proletariat would inevitably revolt against the Bourgeoise. This philosopher was also known for his use of the terms communism, socialism, and capitalism.
Who is Marx?
Philosopher whose ideal state could only be achieved by the commitment to virtue of both its leaders and citizens. Leaders should be chosen for their virtue and ability, and not by popular vote.
Who is Confucius?
The theory that we are always deep down motivated by what we perceive to be in our own self-interest.
What is Psychological Egoism?
What is Existentialism?
A branch of philosophy that studies how people should act in a moral sense (what is right and wrong).
What is Normative Ethics?
Philosopher that is known for their belief in "rational egoism" which is the concept that the standard of morality is self-interest and people should act according to their own rational self-interest.
Who is Rand?
Philosopher who believed that man is naturally a selfish hedonist when unrestrained, leading to chaos. This philosopher created the concept of Leviathan which is a powerful, all-encompassing sovereign authority that represents the state.
Who is Hobbes?
The view that morality is somehow dependent upon God, and that moral obligation consists in obedience to God’s commands.
What is Divine Command Theory?
A logical fallacy that occurs when someone assumes that something is good or morally right because it's "natural".
What is Naturalistic Fallacy?