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Intro to Philosophy — Ethics Theories

Major ethical frameworks and how they approach moral questions

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moral_compass_mc 15 terms Sep 27, 2025
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Terms 15

1
Consequentialism
Rightness of action determined by its outcomes or consequences
2
Utilitarianism
Maximize total happiness for the greatest number; Mill and Bentham
3
Deontology
Morality based on rules and duties, not outcomes; Kant
4
Virtue Ethics
Focus on character and virtues rather than rules or consequences; Aristotle
5
Divine Command Theory
Actions are moral because God commands them
6
Natural Law Theory
Morality derived from human nature and reason; Aquinas
7
Social Contract Theory
Moral rules derived from agreement among rational individuals; Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau
8
Care Ethics
Emphasizes relationships, context, and care for others; Gilligan, Noddings
9
Moral Absolutism
Some actions are always right or wrong regardless of context
10
Moral Relativism
Moral judgments vary by culture or individual; no universal standard
11
The Trolley Problem
Thought experiment pitting utilitarian action against moral prohibition
12
Golden Rule
Treat others as you wish to be treated; appears across cultures and religions
13
Rights-Based Ethics
Moral framework centered on fundamental human rights that must not be violated
14
Egoism
Ethical theory holding self-interest as the proper motivation for action
15
Rawls' Veil of Ignorance
Design society without knowing your position in it; promotes fairness