Ethical Theories and Critiques

The video explores the evolution of metaethical analysis in the 20th century, highlighting key philosophers like Richard Hare, Bernard Williams, Gertrude Anscombe, Philippa Foot, and Alasdair MacIntyre. It discusses their contributions to ethical theories, including utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and critiques of consequentialism and deontology. The video also covers concepts like moral expressivism, thick and thin ethical terms, and the Trolley Problem, emphasizing the importance of intention and social context in moral philosophy.

What was a significant impact of the rise of metaethical analysis in the 20th century?

• It focused solely on deontological theories.

• It led to the decline of utilitarianism.

• It made traditional ethical philosophies obsolete.

• It caused the emergence of new ethical schools.

Which concept is NOT associated with Richard Hare's utilitarian perspective?

• Prescriptiveness

• Moral absolutism

• Universalizability

• Supervenience

How did Bernard Williams view the systematization of moral life?

• As essential for ethical understanding

• As impossible due to diverse experiences

• As a way to simplify ethical dilemmas

• As a necessary step for moral progress

What did Bernard Williams mean by 'thick' ethical terms?

• Terms that are universally applicable

• Terms with proper factual association

• Terms that are purely subjective

• Terms with no factual association

What was Gertrude Margaret Anscombe's main critique of consequentialism?

• It lacks a focus on individual actions.

• It is too similar to deontological theories.

• It disregards the means to achieve results.

• It focuses too much on intentions.

Which ethical model did Anscombe help revive?

• Deontological ethics

• Utilitarianism

• Consequentialism

• Virtue ethics

What is Philippa Foot known for creating?

• The Trolley Problem

• The Golden Rule

• The Principle of Utility

• The Categorical Imperative

How does Philippa Foot view the role of rationality in ethics?

• As the supreme guide for moral decisions

• As less important than emotions

• As irrelevant to moral judgments

• As the only objective measure

What does Alasdair MacIntyre criticize about consequentialist and deontological theories?

• Their focus on emotional aspects

• Their lack of proper morality

• Their emphasis on individual actions

• Their reliance on cultural norms

Which philosopher is associated with a communitarian perspective in ethics?

• Bernard Williams

• Gertrude Margaret Anscombe

• Alasdair MacIntyre

• Richard Hare