Ethical Theories- principles and frameworks

Question 1

What is ethics?

Answer 1

A system of moral principles and a branch of philosophy which defines what is good for individuals and society.

Question 2

Meta ethics

Answer 2

Abstract

Nature of goodness and badness, right or wrong.

Question 3

Normative ethics

Answer 3

Focus is on acts
Agent – Person performing the act,

Act itself

Consequences of the act

virtue, deontological, and consequentialist–each emphasising one of these elements.

Applied Ethics

Question 4

Consequentialism

Answer 4

An act is evaluated solely in terms of its consequences.

Question 5

Utilitarianism

Answer 5

Maximising good – wellbeing/welfare; most happiness for the largest number of people

Question 6

Preference utilitarianism

Answer 6

utility increases as preference/desire is satisfied

Question 7

Hedonism/Hedonistic utilitarianism

Answer 7

(Maximise Pleasure vs. Pain – simple sensory vs higher cognitive)

Question 8

Deontology

Answer 8

Features of the act themselves determine worthiness.

E.g., Kantianism or Virtue

Question 9

Categorical

Answer 9

(unconditional, rational wills, does not depend on the end…)
Do not lie

Moral laws are categorical