Moral Philosophy: Ethical Theories

What does a Utilitarian claim?

• The individual is seen as having the right to make judgements and take action according to their own judgement, freedom and consccience.

• The morality of any decision is determined by its usefulness in contributing to the common good.

• What is right or wrong, good or evil in human action is not absolute, but depends on the culture, context or circumstances in which each action occurs.

True or False: External authority is not regarded as any bar to the freedom of the individual to choose and act.

• True

• False

Which approach to ethics endorses selfishness, but doesn't endorse foolishness

• Natural Law

• Nihilism

• Ethical Egoism

• Situation Ethics

Which approach to ethics refers to an innate knowledge of right and wrong that is part of being human?

• Natural Law

• Situation Ethics

• Relativism

• Ethical Egoism

Which approach to ethics was developed by Joseph F. Fletcher and based on the general Christian norm of brotherly love?

• Natural Law

• Nihilism

• Relativism

• Situation Ethics

True or False: Relativists make judgements about whether or not any action is right or wring for everyone.

• False

• True

Which approach to ethics is based on the perception that life has no meaning, that no goal is any better than another.

• Natural Law

• Nihilism

• Ethical Egoism

• Utilitarianism