pte Flashcards
define a conspiracy theory
explanations for the events around the world that usually involve a secret operation usually carried out by a group of plotters usually for a common goal
explain the difference between an irrational belief and a conspiracy theory
irrational beliefs lack truth and are usually harmful and illogical. some conspiracy theories have turned out to be true, however most are irrational
why would someone be motivated to adopt a conspiracy theory?
it can be more entertaining than the truth. it makes us feel clever, special or important. it appeals to our emotions and gives us a focus for our anger
what is confirmation bias and why does it matter
only seeking or recognising evidence and ideas that support our currently held views. it limits our understanding and prevents us from changing our mind
why might religion be an irrational belief
it can be harmful and limit other ways of thinking about life, may not be true as there are too many religions for them all to be true
define ahimsa
the belief in total and absolute non-violence towards anything. including violent tone, actions, speech and thoughts.
explain the role of karma in ahimsa
good karma is attained when we protect life, bad karma results from violence which then leads to a bad rebirth or more coming back to us
what religions would follow ahimsa
buddhism, hinduism
what is the difference between a western and eastern perception of ai
western; hostile and sceptical
eastern; more open and considerate to possible benefits and consciousness
explain the challenge social media can create for democracy
can spread misinformation and promotes conflict and emotion over reason and real communication
define utilitarianism
the greatest happiness for the greatest number in any given situation
explain the trolly problem
a thought experiment where we must choose between allowing a train to end 5 lives or switching the track to kill 1 person
who was peter singer
the utilitarian philosopher who supported animal rights and the equal consideration of interests
explain the difference between a western and an eastern perception of animals and the soul
western; Christian view- only man has a god given soul and is special
eastern; animals and humans share the same souls and all life is connected
what is cosmetic and medical testing on animals
cosmetic: testing for makeup, products etc
medical: testing for medicine and life saving treatments
define divine command theory
right and wrong are absolute given as the commands of god in the form of scripture which must be followed like rules
explain the difference between absolute and relative morality
absolute- always follow the same rule no matter what
relative- do what is best in the situation
what religions would follow the divine command theory
christianity, judaism, islam
what are the differences between western culture and eastern culture
western cultures- promote individuality and independence
eastern- more we cultures that emphasize importance of responsibility and relationships
explain 2 different beliefs about consciousness
consciousness realism- exists as part of the world not able to reduce the physical part so the brain.
materialism- just a product of the brain