Lecture 2 Flashcards
What are the characteristics of scientific facts?
- must be observable
- confirmed by more than one observer
- open to revision/dismissal if new evidence arises
What distinguishes science from pseudoscience?
Science: based on confirmable evidence
Pseudoscience: deals with unverified claims (e.g., ghosts, UFOs)
What does the Greek root of “philosophy” mean?
“Philosophos” means “love of wisdom.”
What is Ethics?
study of human conduct & behavior
examines
-right and wrong
-good and bad
-just and unjust.
What is the origin of the term “ethics”?
from the Greek word “ethos,” meaning “way of living.”
How are values defined in ethics? What is it influenced by?
personal beliefs about what is important or worthwhile
- influenced by culture, family, and experience.
What are morals?
social guidelines that express values through behavioral norms, often forming the basis of moral codes.
How do morals differ from values?
Morals are socially imposed standards of right and wrong,
Values are more personal and subjective.
What is the role of ethical principles?
They provide guidance on how to behave in society and ensure fairness, justice, and equality.
What is relativism in ethics?
The belief that ethical standards vary by culture or individual; there are no absolute moral truths.
What is universalism in ethics?
The belief that some moral truths apply universally, regardless of culture or context.
What is the Golden Rule in ethical reasoning?
“Treat others the way you would like to be treated”—a virtue-based approach promoting fairness and empathy.
What is the Duty Principle in ethics?
Actions are right if they stem from a sense of obligation or duty, regardless of consequences
What is the Utilitarian Principle in ethics?
Actions are right if they produce the most benefit for the greatest number of people
What does critical thinking involve in ethics?
Systematic evaluation of beliefs using rational standards, objectivity, and recognition of cognitive biases
What is cognitive dissonance and how does it affect ethical reasoning?
It is the discomfort from holding conflicting beliefs, which can distort reasoning or lead to biased decisions
How is science connected to ethics in bioethics?
Science determines what can be done; ethics evaluates what ought to be done.
What are some examples of ethical dilemmas in science?
Vaccine distribution, genetic modification, human experimentation, euthanasia, and end-of-life care
