Classical & Contemporary Ethical Theories Flashcards
What is ethics?
Ethics is the study of the principles and reasons/rules by which we can determine right from wrong.
What is the difference between morality and ethics?
Morality refers to the norms and values by which individuals or communities define right/wrong or good/bad, whereas ethics is the study of those principles and reasons/rules.
What is ethical theory?
Ethical theory refers to the approaches for understanding how we make moral distinctions between ‘good’ and ‘bad’.
What are the 4 classical ethical theories and who introduced them?
Ethical Egoism (Smith / Crane and Matten, 2010)
Utilitarianism (Bentham / Crane and Matten, 2010)
Deontology (Kant / Crane and Matten, 2010)
Virtue Ethics (Aristotle Crane and Matten, 2010)
How can you apply the theory of Egoism to a business example?
Egoism could be applied to a company deciding to automate their processes, thereby laying off workers. The company is acting in its own best interest, aiming to increase efficiency and profits, even if it leads to job loss.
How can you apply the theory of Utilitarianism to a business example?
A business may choose to implement eco-friendly practices, not just for public image or legal requirements, but because it creates the greatest good for the greatest number by protecting the environment and contributing to sustainability.
How can you apply the theory of Deontology to a business example?
A: A software company resisting the urge to sell user data for profit, due to their moral duty to respect privacy and confidentiality, is an example of deontology in business.
How can you apply the theory of Virtue Ethics to a business example?
A company that fosters an environment of transparency, honesty, and open communication is practising virtue ethics. They focus on nurturing good character traits in their employees which influences their decision-making.
What is Ethical Egoism?
A consequentialist theory that proposes individuals should do what is in their best interest. In other words, it is morally right for individuals to pursue their own self-interest.
What are 3 arguments for Egoism?
- Self-Knowledge Argument: Individuals understand their needs better than anyone else, which can also benefit others (e.g. starting Nestwork)
- Respect for Human Integrity Argument: Individuals are less dependent on others, promoting integrity
- Reciprocity Argument: All ethics could be viewed as Egoism as we hope to be treated well by treating others well (Golden Rule)
What is Utilitarianism?
A consequentialist theory with the goal to maximize happiness and minimize suffering, often summed up as “the greatest good for the greatest number.”
What are 3 arguments for Utilitarianism?
- Greatest Happiness Principle: Maximises happiness for the greatest number of people
- Impartiality and equality: Every persons hapiness counts equally, no individual is more significant than anothers
- Practical decision making: Offers clear guideline for making moral decisions - choose the action that maximses overall happiness
What is Deontology?
A non-consequentialist ethical approach that focuses on moral duty and the motivations behind actions rather than their consequences.
What are 2 arguments for Deontology?
- Independence from Particular Actions: Allows ethical laws and codes for right and wrong to be established, regardless of the situation
- Recognition of Intrinsic Evil: Acknowledges the existence of universally wrongful acts, such as genocide, unlike other theories that focus on the consequences
What is Virtue Ethics?
An ethical theory where morally correct actions are those undertaken by individuals with virtuous characters.
