Chapter 5 Flashcards
(18 cards)
Moral theory
An explanation of what makes an action right or what makes a person or thing good.
Considered Moral judgement
A moral assessment that is as free from bias and distorting passions as possible. We generally trust such a judgement unless there is a reason to doubt it.
Consequentialist theory
A theory asserting that what makes an action right is its consequences
Nonconsequentialist theory
A theory asserting that the rightness of an action does not depend on its consequences
utilitarianism
A theory asserting that the morally right action is the one that produces the most favorable balance of good over evil. Everyone considered
Act-utilitarianism
A utilitarian theory asserting that that morally right action is the one that directly produces the most good over evil. Everyone considered.
Rule-utilitarianism
A utilitarian theory asserting that the morally right actions is the one covered by a rule that , if generally followed, would produce the most good over evil. Everyone considered.
Ethical Egoism
A theory asserting that the morally right action is the one that produces the most favorable balance of good over evil for oneself.
categorical imperative
An imperative that we should follow regardless of our particular wants and needs; also, the principle defines Kent’s theory
Kent’s theory
A theory asserting that the morally right action is the one done in accordance with the categorical imperative.
Natural law theory
A theory asserting that the morally right action is the one that follows the dictates of nature.
divine command theory
A theory asserting that the morally right action is the one that God commands
Prima facie principle
A principle that applies in a situation unless exceptions are justified.
principlism
A moral theory consisting of multiple moral principles that must be weighed and balanced against one another to determine rights actions.
negative right
A person’s right that obligates others not to interfere with that person’s obtaining something.
Positive right
A person’s right that obligates others to help that person obtain something
Retributive justice
the fair use of punishment for wrongdoing
distributive justice
The fair distribution of society’s benefits and costs (such as income, taxes, jobs, and public service)
