Moral: Aristotle 5. voluntary action, choice, responsibility Flashcards
(22 cards)
Are we morally responsible for actions?
Yes, we can appropriately blame/praise individuals based on their actions
This depends on whether the actions are voluntary or involuntary.
What defines a voluntary action?
We know what we are doing and we bring it about ourselves
What two factors can make actions involuntary?
- Force
- Ignorance
What happens in an involuntary action due to force?
The cause is not the individual but an external force
What is the effect of ignorance on moral responsibility?
Actions done in ignorance may not be considered voluntary and can affect blame.
What is an example of an involuntary action from ignorance?
Accidentally poisoning a friend due to a lack of knowledge about an allergy
Can you be responsible for a non-voluntary action from ignorance?
No, if you don’t feel regret, you are not responsible.
What distinguishes an action in ignorance from acting from ignorance?
Acting in ignorance counts as voluntary, while acting from ignorance is considered involuntary.
What does Aristotle say about actions done under extreme psychological pressure?
Such actions should be pardoned, not blamed.
What is the difference between voluntary actions and actions done from desire or emotion?
Actions done from desire or emotion can still be considered voluntary.
What is the nature of moral responsibility according to Aristotle?
Actions must be voluntary for us to have moral responsibility.
What is Aristotle’s view on bad people and their actions?
Bad people act voluntarily, but their actions stem from ignorance of what is truly desirable.
What does Aristotle argue about the relationship between character and ignorance?
A bad person’s ignorance is a result of their character, which is shaped by their choices.
What is Clarence Darrow’s argument regarding responsibility?
We are not responsible for what we are due to genetic and environmental influences.
What does Aristotle believe about the responsibility of actions linked to character?
A bad person is responsible for their acts because they are responsible for their character.
Fill in the blank: We can only be praised/blamed for _________ actions.
[voluntary]
Fill in the blank: In voluntary actions, we know what __ ___ _____ and we bring it about ___________.
[we are doing, ourselves]
Fill in the blank: ______ and __________ render actions involuntary.
[Force, Ignorance]
Fill in the blank: An involuntary action from ignorance is caused by ignorance AND is accompanied by _______.
[regret]
What is involved in Aristotle’s concept of choice?
Choice involves deliberation about means to achieve ends.
Do we deliberate about ends according to Aristotle?
No, we deliberate about means to achieve further ends.
What is the significance of voluntary actions in Aristotle’s philosophy?
Voluntary actions are crucial for moral responsibility.
