01/10 Foundations of Ethical Thinking Free Online FlashCards

What is ethics?

Ethics is the systematic study of morality, including the ideas, standards, and reasons used to judge conduct.

What does metaethics examine?

Metaethics examines the meaning and foundations of moral claims, including whether moral judgments are objective.

How do values differ from norms?

Values are judgments about what is good or important; norms are standards or expectations that guide behavior.

What criterion does consequentialism use?

Consequentialism judges actions by the results they produce, especially their overall balance of benefits and harms.

What is a moral judgment?

A moral judgment is a conclusion about what someone ought to do, may do, or is praiseworthy or blameworthy for doing.

What does consistency require in ethical reasoning?

Consistency requires applying the same moral standards to sufficiently similar cases unless a morally relevant difference justifies different treatment.

What is the first step in structured ethical analysis?

The first step is to state the ethical question as a moral issue rather than merely a practical or public-relations problem.

Does legality settle whether an action is ethical?

Legal permission does not settle an ethical question; an action may be lawful while still conflicting with duties, fairness, rights, or other values.

What is applied ethics?

Applied ethics uses moral principles and reasoning to analyze particular issues, such as privacy, medical treatment, or environmental responsibility.

What does deontology emphasize?

Deontology judges actions by whether they conform to applicable duties, rules, or rights.

What does virtue ethics emphasize?

Virtue ethics evaluates conduct in relation to morally excellent character and practical wisdom.

What makes a consideration a moral reason?

A reason is a consideration that counts for or against an action and can be evaluated by others; it is not merely a personal preference.