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CBC Ethics
Flashcards for Exam #2
25
Philosophy
Undergraduate 1
05/19/2011

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Term
Define: Negative Responsibility
Definition
The idea that one is guilty through inaction as well as through action. Williams says that this is an unfair aspect of utilitarianism
Term
When is collateral damage justified?
Definition
According to Kant: never. According to utility: When it satisfies the Greatest Happiness Principle
Term
The 7 Factors to Consider for Each Action
Definition
1. Its intensity
2. Its duration
3. Its certainty or uncertainty
4. Its propinquity or remoteness
5. Its fecundity
6. Its purity
7. Its extent
Term
Define: the Calculus of Felicity
Definition
The calculus designed to gauge by means of cost-benefit analysis the net value of pleasure coming from a specific action. In other words, do the math.
Term
Define: the Greatest Happiness Principle
Definition
Maximize pleasure, minimize pain
Term
Define: Classical Utilitarianism
Definition
A theory that examines the consequences of an action and tries to satisfy the Greatest Happiness Principle
Term
How do we achieve happiness according to Williams?
Definition
By pursuing worthwhile projects (commitments), not merely the greatest net pleasure.
Term
Define: Kantian Ethics
Definition
A rational, deontological, duty-oriented system of ethics that relies on pure reason to determine whether an action is moral or immoral, disregarding the consequences. Each person has "good will" and reason to help determine actions moral or immoral. People are ends and never means.
Term
Frankena's Arguments Against Kant
Definition
1. Competing duties - how to solve the problem of conflicting obligations?
2. People don't want to be nice
3. "Whistling in the dark" - Sometimes maxims can be made that have no moral bearing whatsoever.
Term
The Deep Beauty of the Golden Rule
Definition
The Golden Rule is a mode of behavior that provides a perspective that will lead to more moral acts. All major religions have a version of it.
Term
A Critique of the Golden Rule
Definition
It's not enough to put oneself in another's shoes. For instance, a jailer cannot let a prisoner escape simply because he would want that if he were a prisoner. It does not provide a complete system of ethics.
Term
Moral Luck
Definition
The idea that our actions do not entirely depend on free will, that they are influenced by circumstances.
Term
4 Types of Moral Luck
Definition
1. Luck in the way one's actions or projects turn out
2. Luck in how one is determined by antecedent circumstances
3. Constitutive luck, the kind of person you are (abilities, inclinations, temperament).
4. Circumstantial luck, in which you would have acted different had circumstances been different.
Term
Aristotle's Virtue Ethics
Definition
One must stay on the "golden mean." The process of achieving the end is more important that achieving the end itself. One must rely on virtues to stay on the golden mean, and not stray too far from it ever.
Term
3 Levels of Saints and Heroes
Definition
1. One who does his duty with self control
2. One who does his duty with little effort
3. One who goes "above and beyond" his duty
Term
Define: Supererogatory
Definition
Actions that go "above and beyond" duty, but that are not required i.e. no one can criticize you for not doing such an action.
Term
What does Urmson think about supererogatory actions in conjunction with moral theory?
Definition
He says that moral theories should allow for actions that can be considered above and beyond the call of duty.
Term
What does Frankena say about virtue ethics?
Definition
Frankena thinks that virtues are good for moral education, but that "being" and "doing" are not the same thing. It is not enough to simply "be" a good person. One must act like a good person.
Term
Define: Stoicism
Definition
A defensive philosophy that focuses on knowing what one has control over and what one must simply accept. Nothing makes you unhappy, you let yourself become unhappy. Trying to control "alien" things will lead to being miserable. Think of Spock
Term
What is the difference between Stoicism and Virtue Ethics?
Definition
Virtue Ethics is offensive and Stoicism is defensive
Term
How does Frankl expand on Stoicism?
Definition
One must not only endure suffering but find meaning in it; use it to become a better person.
Term
What is Utility's understanding of "dirty hands?"
Definition
Someone who refuses to "get their hands dirty" and, for example, kill one person for the benefit of many is merely squeamish.
Term
Why does Mills say that Utility won't turn people into "swine?"
Definition
Mills writes that pleasure involves not only the sensual-beer or Shakespeare? Mills would say that we have to consider the quality of the pleasure we pursue.
Term
Why does Stockdale think it's best to either be sophisticated or simple in a POW camp?
Definition
The simple will be able to resist conditioning simply because he can say "B.S." to whatever the interrogators say. The sophisticate is able to argue and is unswayed by brainwashing because he understands both sides of the issue.
Term
What does Frankl believe about happiness?
Definition
We don't pursue happiness; we search for a meaning to live.
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