RE Flashcards
ultarianism
ethical theory that determines right from wrong by focusing on outcomes. it is a form of consequentialism. utilitarianism holds that the most ethical choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number.
ethics
examines the rational justification for our moral judgments; it studies what is morally right or wrong, just or unjust.
deontology
the study of the nature of duty and obligation.
categorical impressive
commands or moral laws all persons must follow, regardless of their desires or extenuating circumstances.
virtue ethics
arguably the oldest ethical theory in the world, with origins in ancient greece. it defines good actions as ones that display embody virtuous character traits, like courage, loyalty, or wisdom. a virtue itself is a disposition to act, think and feel in certain ways.
natural law
a theory in ethics and philosophy that says that human beings possess intrinsic values that govern their reasoning and behavior.
philosophy
The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.
morality
Beliefs that people have as to what is right and wrong or good and bad behaviour.
Immanuel Kant
German philosopher who put forward philosophical ideas to do with the nature of reality as well as ethics.
Kantian Ethics
The belief that an action is right if the motives for that action are right.
Aristotle
Ancient Greek philosopher and scientist who is still considered one of the greatest thinkers of all time.
Virtue
A good character trait.
Thomas Aquainas
Monk, scientist and philosopher who put forward the idea of Natural Law.
Jean-Paul Sartre
A French philosopher who is known for the philosophy of existence known as existentialism.
Existentialism
The belief that we are born with nothing and that each person is responsible for creating purpose or meaning in their own lives.
