ethical theories

Question 1

utilitarianism

Answer 1

An ethical theory focused on maximizing happiness or minimizing suffering for the greatest number of people.
Application: Choose actions that result in the most overall benefit or least harm.
Keywords: “Greatest good for the greatest number,” “maximize happiness,” “minimize harm,” “consequences,” “outcomes,” “cost-benefit analysis.”

Question 2

Kantianism

Answer 2

An ethical theory based on duty, rules, and universal principles, regardless of consequences.
Application: Act according to moral rules or duties that apply to everyone, and never treat people as mere means to an end.
Keywords: “Duty,” “universal law,” “moral obligation,” “respect for persons,” “means to an end,” “categorical imperative.”

Question 3

virtue ethics

Answer 3

Definition: An ethical theory focused on developing good character traits (virtues) and acting as a morally good person would.
Application: Choose actions that reflect virtues like courage, honesty, and compassion.
Keywords: “Character,” “virtue,” “moral excellence,” “what a good person would do,” “habits,” “integrity.”

Question 4

liberal

Answer 4

Definition: An ethical theory centered on individual rights, autonomy, and freedom of choice.
Application: Respect personal freedom and allow individuals to make their own decisions.
Keywords: “Autonomy,” “individual rights,” “freedom,” “personal choice,” “non-interference,” “self-determination.”

Question 5

feminist

Answer 5

Definition: An ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of relationships, care, and addressing power imbalances, particularly regarding gender.
Application: Focus on care, empathy, and justice while questioning how power dynamics affect decisions.
Keywords: “Care,” “relationships,” “power imbalance,” “gender equality,” “oppression,” “empathy,” “context.”