Ethical Theory 1 Flashcards
Cognitivism
Claim to know “right from wrong”
“Devine Command”
“God knows what is right and wrong”
Non-consequentalism (deontological ethics)
Principles are what counts, no matter the consequences
Theories of Justice
The simultaneously fair treatment of individuals in a given situation, with the result that everybody gets what they deserve.
Virtue ethics (Managerial integrity)
Morally correct actions are those undertaken by actors with virtuous characters.
Virtue ethics (Key philosophers)
Confucius and Aristotle
Egoism theory
An action is morally right if the decision-maker freely decides to pursue their (short-term) desires or their (long-term) interest.
Egoism theory by Plato
Individuals have only limited insight into the consequences of their actions, therefore he/she should concentrate on their own desires and interests - “trying to please everybody is impossible”.
Egoism theory by Adam Smith
Pursuit of individual interest morally acceptable through market’s “invisible hand” that benefits everybody.
Enlightened egoism
Conviction that persons who act to further the interests of others, ultimately serve their own self-interest.
Recent Egoism related controversies
- Markets are imperfect
- Anti-Globalisation
- Sustainability challenges
Feminist ethics
Prioritises empathy, harmonious and healthy social relationships, care for one another, and avoidance of harm, above abstract principles.
Feminist ethics (Key philosophers)
Nel Noddings and Carol Gilligan
