Ethics 1.1 Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is a moral dilemma?
A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.
When is a person in a state of dilemma?
When that person faces a problem but the solutions available will only create another problem or worse create more problems.
What are the characteristics of a moral dilemma?
- Two or more actions possible
- Moral reasons for doing such actions
- Cannot do all actions presented
- Doing something morally wrong while also doing something right.
What does the term ‘dilemma’ originate from?
The Greek words ‘di’ meaning two and ‘lemma’ meaning proposition or premise.
What are the three conditions to qualify a moral dilemma according to Karen Allen?
- Must make a decision for the best course of action
- Different courses of action to choose from
- Some ethical principle is compromised regardless of the action taken.
What is a personal moral dilemma?
A situation where your decision causes potential harm to yourself, another person, or a group.
What is an organizational moral dilemma?
A situation where a member of an organization faces moral conflict that could potentially harm everyone.
What is a structural/systemic moral dilemma?
A situation where individuals in high-level positions face morally conflicting situations that affect the entire social system.
Define instinctive behavior.
A hard-wired, inborn response to specific environmental stimuli.
Define rational behavior.
A decision-making process where a person acts in ways that best achieve their needs according to their preferences and principles.
What metaphor does C.S. Lewis use to explain morality?
He compares morality to ships that must coordinate with each other to avoid collisions while sailing toward a common destination.
Why is freedom crucial in making moral decisions?
It allows individuals to develop virtue and make morally good choices as a habit.
What are virtues according to the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy?
Thought or behavior guided by high moral standards, developed through learning and practice.
What is the relationship between freedom and responsibility?
Freedom allows individuals to make choices, and responsibility entails enduring the consequences of those choices.
What does Gabriel Marcel say about freedom?
Freedom is the ability to act significantly and is a gift given to us by God.
According to Aristotle, how are freedom and reason related?
They are complementary; practical rationality is necessary for pursuing one’s ultimate end.
What is Jean-Paul Sartre’s view on freedom?
Humans are ‘absolutely free’ and capable of making choices beyond mere basic needs.
What does Sartre mean by the concept of responsibility?
That freedom entails making choices and enduring the consequences of those choices.
What does Lao Tzu advocate regarding actions and responsibility?
A person should choose actions that result in harmony, recognizing the consequences of their actions.
