Exploring Ethics: Utilitarianism and Virtue

What is utilitarianism and how does it define right action?

• Utilitarianism defines right action as following moral rules regardless of consequences.

• Utilitarianism defines right action as the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility.

• Utilitarianism states that right action is determined by religious beliefs.

• Utilitarianism emphasizes individual rights over collective happiness.

Explain the principle of the greatest happiness in utilitarianism.

• Utilitarianism prioritizes moral rules over consequences.

• The principle focuses solely on the happiness of the individual.

• The principle of the greatest happiness in utilitarianism states that actions are right if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

• Actions are right if they maximize individual freedom.

How does deontology differ from utilitarianism in ethical decision-making?

• Deontology is rule-based, focusing on duties and rights, while utilitarianism is consequence-based, focusing on maximizing overall happiness.

• Deontology prioritizes the greatest good for the greatest number.

• Deontology focuses solely on the outcomes of actions.

• Utilitarianism is based on strict adherence to moral rules.

What role do virtues play in ethical theories?

• Virtues are solely based on cultural traditions.

• Virtues are irrelevant to ethical theories.

• Virtues guide moral behavior and character development in ethical theories.

• Virtues only apply to legal systems, not ethics.

Can an action be considered ethical if it leads to negative consequences in utilitarianism?

• No, an action cannot be considered ethical if it leads to negative consequences in utilitarianism.

• Yes, it can be ethical if the intent is good.

• Consequences do not matter in determining ethics.

• An action is ethical if it benefits the majority.

Discuss a scenario where utilitarianism might conflict with deontological ethics.

• Deontological ethics allows for sacrificing individuals if it benefits society.

• Utilitarianism always prioritizes individual rights over the greater good.

• Utilitarianism might support sacrificing a few individuals to save many, while deontological ethics would oppose it based on the duty to not harm individuals.

• Utilitarianism and deontological ethics always align in moral decision-making.

What is the significance of moral rules in deontological ethics?

• Moral rules are flexible and can change based on individual circumstances in deontological ethics.

• Moral rules are only important in consequentialist ethics, not in deontological ethics.

• Moral rules are essential in deontological ethics as they establish universal duties that guide ethical behavior, emphasizing the importance of intention and adherence to moral principles.

• Moral rules are irrelevant in deontological ethics as they focus solely on outcomes.

How do virtue ethics assess the character of a person?

• Character is assessed by the outcomes of actions only.

• Virtue ethics ignores personal traits and emphasizes social status.

• Virtue ethics assesses character by evaluating virtues and moral qualities.

• Virtue ethics focuses solely on rules and laws.

Provide an example of a virtue and its importance in ethical behavior.

• Laziness encourages innovation and creativity, essential for ethical decision-making.

• Dishonesty builds strong relationships and loyalty, important for ethical conduct.

• Honesty is a virtue that fosters trust and transparency, essential for ethical behavior.

• Greed promotes collaboration and teamwork, which is vital for ethical behavior.

What are the strengths of utilitarianism as an ethical framework?

• The strengths of utilitarianism include its focus on outcomes, clarity in decision-making, impartiality, and adaptability.

• Prioritization of intentions over outcomes

• Emphasis on strict rules

• Focus on individual rights