Ethics

Question 1

Define ‘Utilitarianism’

Answer 1

Utilitarianism is a secular system of ethics that determines how morally correct or incorrect an action is, based on the amount of utility (Happiness) or pain the action will produce. The more happiness produced, the more morally correct; the more pain produces, the less morally correct.

Question 2

What are measuring factors of felific calculus?

Answer 2

Duration, Remoteness, Extent, Certainity, Purity, Intensity, Fecundity. DREC PIF. (Jeremy Bentham)

Question 3

Issues with Utilitarianism

Answer 3

We cannot see into the future
It can be used as justification for bad actions
Ignores rights
It disregards importance of minorities
Does not regard emotion

Question 4

Positives of Utilitarianism

Answer 4

Spreads happiness evenly

Everybody can experience some degree of happiness, not everybody can appreciate the importance of God’s commands

Happiness and pain are definitely real
It is simple
Non Religious
Solves moral dilemas
Comprehensive

Question 5

Define ‘Divine Command Morality’

Answer 5

It is a religious system of ethics that says God determines what is morally correct or incorrect. What god commands is always good, what god forbids is always bad.

Question 6

Issues with ‘Divine Command Morality’

Answer 6

God commands lots of things, but not everything
God may not exist
Some commands seem bad
Shares many flaws with Utilitarianism, and more
Open to misinterpretation

Question 7

Advantages of ‘Divine Command Morality’

Answer 7

Little personal thinking involved, just follow God’s command
If God exists, he is right
Answers ‘Why be moral’ God says so

Question 8

Example of Good Command

Answer 8

‘Luke 10:25-37’ Treat others well, be charitable

Question 9

Example of Bad Command

Answer 9

‘Deuteronomy 7: 1-6’ Genocide for personal and God’s gain (Give Utilitarian reason why bad)