Question 1

What is natural law theory? What reasons are there to think that there is a "natural law"?

Accepted Answer

Natural law theory is a philosophical belief that certain rights and moral values are inherent in nature and can be understood through reason. This theory suggests that there are universal principles that govern human behavior and can be discovered through rational inquiry.

There are several reasons to think that there is a "natural law." First, proponents of natural law theory argue that certain moral principles, such as the prohibition of murder or theft, are universally recognized across different cultures and societies. This suggests that these principles are not simply the result of social or cultural conventions, but are rooted in a deeper, natural order.

Second, natural law theorists point to the idea that human beings have a rational nature, which allows them to discern moral truths and understand the natural order of the world. This rational capacity, they argue, enables individuals to recognize and adhere to natural laws that govern human conduct.

Additionally, natural law theory is often associated with the belief in a higher, transcendent source of moral authority, such as a divine being or cosmic order. Proponents of natural law argue that these higher principles provide a foundation for moral values and rights that are inherent in the natural world.

Overall, the reasons to think that there is a "natural law" stem from the belief in universal moral principles, the rational nature of human beings, and the existence of a higher source of moral authority. These reasons form the basis for the natural law theory and its understanding of the inherent moral order in the world.

Question 2

What is relativism? How is it applied to moral stances?

Accepted Answer

Relativism is the belief that there are no absolute or universal truths, and that what is true or moral can vary depending on the individual, culture, or society. In other words, what is considered right or wrong is not fixed and can change based on different perspectives and circumstances.

When applied to moral stances, relativism suggests that moral values and principles are not objective or absolute, but rather subjective and relative to the individual or cultural context. This means that what is considered morally acceptable or unacceptable can differ from person to person or from one culture to another.

For example, in a relativistic view, the moral stance on issues such as abortion, euthanasia, or capital punishment may vary depending on the cultural, religious, or personal beliefs of individuals or groups. What is considered morally right or wrong is not determined by any universal standard, but rather by the specific context and perspective of those involved.

Critics of relativism argue that it can lead to moral skepticism and the erosion of ethical principles, as it suggests that there are no objective standards for evaluating moral actions. However, proponents of relativism argue that it allows for greater tolerance and understanding of diverse moral perspectives and promotes cultural diversity and individual autonomy.

Question 3

What are virtues? Can they be made the basis of an ethical system?

Accepted Answer

Virtues are qualities or traits that are considered to be morally good and desirable. They are often seen as the foundation of ethical behavior and can include traits such as honesty, integrity, compassion, courage, and kindness.

Virtue ethics is a philosophical approach to ethics that emphasizes the importance of developing good character traits and virtues. Proponents of virtue ethics argue that these virtues can serve as the basis for an ethical system because they focus on the moral character of individuals rather than on specific actions or rules. By cultivating virtuous traits, individuals are more likely to make ethical decisions and act in a morally responsible way.

However, critics of virtue ethics argue that it may be difficult to determine which virtues are truly universal and applicable in all situations. Additionally, they argue that virtue ethics may not provide clear guidance on how to handle specific moral dilemmas or conflicts.

Ultimately, whether virtues can serve as the basis of an ethical system is a matter of ongoing debate among ethicists. While virtues can certainly play an important role in shaping ethical behavior, it may be necessary to also consider other ethical theories and principles in order to create a comprehensive and well-rounded ethical system.

Question 4

What does it mean for the good will to be the greatest good? Do you agree with this idea?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What does it mean for the good...

Question 5

What is a moral dilemma? What makes a moral dilemma so challenging to address?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is a moral dilemma? What makes...

Question 6

Virtue ethics says that doing the right thing is ultimately a matter of _____.
A) knowledge
B) character
C) obeying the law
D) conscience

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics emphasizes the role of one's character and the virtues that one's character embodies for determining or evaluating ethical behavior. It suggests that acting rightly involves cultivating and living according to virtues.

Question 7

What is ethical egoism? What is to be said for it as an ethical theory?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is ethical egoism? What is to...

Question 8

Kant thought that the fundamental moral value is _____.
A) unselfishness
B) a good will
C) cultivated virtue
D) temperance

Accepted Answer

Kant believed that the fundamental moral value is a good will, which he considered to be the only thing that is good without qualification. According to Kant, actions are morally right if they are done from a sense of duty, and the intention behind the action is what gives it moral value, not the outcome of the action.

Question 9

Kant thought that moral values _____.
A) are a product of virtue
B) came from the will of God
C) varied from culture to culture
D) could be discovered by our rational faculties

Accepted Answer

Kant believed that moral values are universal and can be discovered through the use of reason. He argued that moral principles are not contingent on personal desires, cultural practices, or divine commands, but rather can be determined by rational thought.

Question 10

How does a utilitarian approach moral issues? Does its principle work in all cases?

Accepted Answer

The answer of How does a utilitarian approach moral issues?...

Question 11

Aristotle defines the good as _____.
A) that which is informed by knowledge
B) doing what the gods demand
C) living a meaningful life
D) that at which all things aim

Accepted Answer

Aristotle defines the good as "that at which all things aim." This is a central concept in his ethical theory, suggesting that every action and pursuit is aimed at some good.

Question 12

Explain divine command theory. What are its limitations?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Explain divine command theory. What are its...

Question 13

What is existentialism? Can it provide a foundation for ethics?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is existentialism? Can it provide a...

Question 14

How is Nietzsche's approach to ethics especially radical? What can we learn from
Nietzsche?

Accepted Answer

The answer of How is Nietzsche's approach to ethics especially...

Question 15

Aristotle thinks of virtuous actions as being moderate because _____.
A) they are learned by cultivating good habits
B) the good is capable of being learned by anyone
C) virtue is that which does not hurt anyone
D) a virtuous person is always seeking knowledge

Accepted Answer

Aristotle's concept of virtue emphasizes the importance of moderation and the mean between extremes. He believes that virtuous actions stem from cultivating good habits, which involves finding a balance between excess and deficiency in one's actions and emotions.

Question 16

Describe the subject matter of ethics. How do you tell an ethical question from a non-ethical question?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe the subject matter of ethics. How...

Question 17

What is ethical absolutism? Do you think it is plausible? Explain.

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is ethical absolutism? Do you think...

Question 18

What is the main problem with ethical relativism?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is the main problem with ethical...

Question 19

What is attractive about ethical subjectivism? What is its biggest drawback?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is attractive about ethical subjectivism? What...

Question 20

What is the difference between descriptive ethics and normative ethics? What is the danger with getting confused between them?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is the difference between descriptive ethics...

Quiz 9: What Are Right Actions Constructing an Ethical Theory