Ethics try 2 Flashcards
Ethics
Definition: The philosophical study of moral principles that guide human actions, focused on what is “good” and “bad” and aiming to help individuals achieve moral excellence.
Moral Knowledge
Definition: The intuitive sense of right and wrong that’s essential to human life, often based on cultural or personal beliefs rather than systematic reflection.
Freedom
Definition: The capacity to choose actions that enhance human nature. True freedom involves making moral choices that lead to growth, not acting without limits.
Good
Definition: Anything that improves or perfects a person, guiding ethical decisions toward fulfilling our highest potential.
Term: Moral Evil
Definition: Actions that harm or degrade a person’s moral character, often resulting from choices that prioritize short-term desires over long-term growth.
Term: Natural Law
Definition: Universal moral principles, like dignity and respect, that are embedded in human nature and guide ethical behavior across cultures.
Conscience
Definition: The inner ability to judge the morality of our actions, helping us determine right from wrong based on universal ethical principles.
Human Person
Definition: Emphasizes the unique dignity of humans, highlighting rationality, freedom, and conscience, which set humans apart from other beings.
Phenomenology of Freedom
Definition: The experience of being the origin of our actions, with the ability to freely choose rather than being driven by instinct or external factors.
Fundamental Goods
Definition: Universal aspects of life, like truth, beauty, and sociability, which are inherently valuable and essential for human development.
Rational Basis of Ethics
Definition: The idea that ethical decisions should be based on reason rather than emotions, helping us make choices that truly benefit us.
Moral Law vs. Positive Law
Definition: Moral law is based on universal principles, while positive law is created by societies and can change with social contexts.
Value
Definition: Desirable qualities or standards like honesty and respect, which are foundational to ethical principles and guide moral judgment.
