Lecture 7 Flashcards
What is contractarianism?
It is an ethical theory based on the idea that moral rules derive from a social agreement or contract among rational individuals
What is the natural state of humans according to contractarianism?
A state of competition, distrust, and pursuit of personal glory—essentially, a “state of war”
What purpose does society serve in contractarian theory?
It prevents chaos by providing structure, laws, and mutual agreements that individuals consent to in exchange for protection and order
What does a “social contract” mean?
An implicit or explicit agreement among individuals to surrender certain freedoms and follow rules to ensure mutual benefit
Can individuals be forced into a social contract according to the theory?
No, individuals must voluntarily (explicitly or tacitly) consent to the contract
What are some of the rights protected under the social contract in democratic societies?
- Fundamental freedoms
- Legal rights (life, liberty, security)
- Equality and democratic rights
- Multicultural and Indigenous rights
What is the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms an example of?
A legal embodiment of the social contract that protects individuals’ rights in Canadian society
What are the key features of contract ethics?
- Emphasis on fairness and mutual agreements
- Moral obligations based on promises and consent
- Society’s legitimacy tied to the protection of individual rights
Does contractarianism consider consequences of actions or personal virtue?
No, it focuses on fairness and the obligations created through social agreements, not on character or outcomes
What is a major criticism of contractarianism in bioethics?
It struggles with ethical decisions involving beings who cannot consent (e.g., animals, future generations, robots, chimeras)
What types of questions does contractarianism struggle to answer?
Emerging ethical challenges like biotechnology, genetic engineering, or AI, where traditional contracts don’t apply
What is the central question in virtue ethics?
“What kind of person ought I to be?”
What is the main focus of virtue ethics?
On the moral character and virtues of the person rather than rules or consequences
How does virtue ethics define a “right action”?
An action a virtuous person would do in the same situation, guided by rational thought.
What does it mean that virtue ethics is character-based?
It focuses on who the person is (their moral character), not just what they do
What is a virtue according to virtue ethics?
A moral trait or quality that contributes to living well (e.g., courage, kindness, wisdom)
What is the “golden mean” in virtue ethics?
Virtue lies between two extremes—excess and deficiency (e.g., courage is the mean between rashness and cowardice)
How are virtues acquired?
Through practice, repetition, reflection, and rational action over time
How does virtue ethics view moral development?
As a lifelong process of building character through habitual virtuous actions
What are character tests used for in virtue ethics?
They help assess whether a decision aligns with being a virtuous person:
- Mentor Test: Would your role model approve?
- Publicity Test: Would you be okay if your action were publicized?
- Mirror Test: Can you respect yourself after the action?
What is a key strength of virtue ethics?
It encourages personal growth and consistent moral behavior across life, not just in isolated decisions
What is a key weakness of virtue ethics?
It does not always provide clear action-guidance for specific moral dilemmas
Why is virtue ethics still relevant in bioethics?
Because healthcare professionals are judged not only by their actions but by the type of person they are—compassionate, honest, etc.
What is the standard list of virtues?
While there is no universal list, common virtues include generosity, courage, justice, truthfulness, kindness, and wisdom
Can virtue ethics differ across cultures?
Yes, the specific list of virtues may vary, but most societies value moral character and personal integrity
