Midterm Flashcards
what are the five themes of the christian stance?
creation, sin, incarnation, redemption, resurrection destiny
utilitarianism
one should act always to maximize the greatest happiness for the greatest number
hedonistic
happiness; is measured in pleasure or absence of pain
T/F Utilitarianism is neutral and objective
true
does it matter who/what is receiving the pleasure or pain in utilitarianism?
no
virtue ethics
focuses on character, happiness, and flourishing
what does virtue ethics say about the right choice?
the right choice is what a good person would do in that situation
utilitarianism is based on what kind of reasoning?
based on common sense reasoning, so it’s good for diverse communities and cooperation
utilitarianism is what we all do for what?
decisions for which no other moral considerations are in play
T/F Hedonistic is a criticism of utilitarian?
true, too degrading and not demanding enough
T/F A criticism of utilitarianism is there’s no higher vision of the human good
true
T/F A criticism of utilitarianism is that it’s too demanding because it’s asking you to maximize the amount of pleasure worldwide 24/7
true
utilitarian paradox
a society of utilitarians would be unhappy
act utilitarianism
act in every situation to maximize happiness for the greatest number
rule utilitarianism
act according to general rules that will maximize happiness for the greatest number (in the long run)
how do you solve the utilitarian paradox?
rule utilitariamism
hypothetical imperatives
what one must do if one wants to achieve some end
categorial imperatives
what one must do
telos
end or goal for which something is done or comes to be
eudaimonia
happiness of flourishing (doing well and being well)
ergon
a thing’s characteristic activity or function
arete
virtue; a thing’s characteristic excellence
what is the function argument?
a thing’s chief good or end (telos) is found in the doing well (doing w arete) of its characteristic activity (ergon)
what are humans’ highest goods?
happiness and acting rationally
