Comprehensive define “metaethics” and cite one example of a metaethical issue or concern. (2 points.)
Comprehensive define “normative ethics” and give one example of a problem or issue in normative ethics. (2 points.)
Comprehensive define “applied ethics” and give one example of a problem or issue in applied ethics.
Comprehensive define “moral realism” and give at least one example of realist philosopher or moral theory. (2 points.)
Comprehensive define “moral relativism” and give at least one example of a relativist philosopher or moral theory. (2 points.)
Comprehensive define “consequentialism” and cite one example of a consequentialist moral theory. (2 points.)
Comprehensive define “deontology” and cite one example of a deontological moral theory. (2 points.)
According to Timmons (chapter 1), there are six basic criteria or standards for evaluating a moral theory. What are they? (3 points.)
Briefly state the basic principle of the Divine Command Theory and identify at least one philosopher, theologian, or religious leader who supports the theory. (2 points.
Identify at least one strength and one weakness of the Divine Command Theory. (2 points.
Identify the “Euthyphro Dilemma” and explain why it poses a problem for believers in the Divine Command Theory. (2 points.)
Briefly explain Natural Law Theory and identify at least one philosopher, theologian, or organization that supports it. (3 points.
Identify one strength and one weakness of Natural Law Theory. (2 points.)
Explain the “Principle of Double Effect” and give an example that illustrates how it applies in a real-life situation. (3 points.)
“Moral absolutism” can be defined as the view that certain actions are always and in all situations wrong. Do you agree or disagree with this view? Can you identify an act that in your opinion is always wrong, regardless of the circumstances? (2 points)
Natural law theory was originally formulated and developed by the Stoic and Aristotelian philosophers of ancient Greece. It was part of a grand cosmological system or scheme of universal order according to which facts and values are deeply intertwined and everything in nature has a special virtue or essence, purpose, and place. Such a world-view seems quaint and fanciful today and has been effectively dismantled by modern science (which, among other things, no longer supports the notion of a telos – i.e., a strategic goal or purpose – in the events and structure of the natural world.) However, this has not prevented modern-day proponents of Natural Law theory from attempting to extend and justify the theory, and consequently there are still philosophers and theologians who try to ground morality either on known or presumed facts about human nature or on truths that seem evident to practical reason. But is it self-evident or reasonable to say, as Natural Law proponents have claimed, that abortion, suicide, contraception, and same-sex relationships are wrong? Is it possible to deduce moral rules from facts about human nature? In short, is Natural Law theory still a viable and credible moral theory today? (2 Points.)
Provide COMPREHENSIVE answers and your answer in question 1-15 should have about 200-250 words. Question 16 should have 300 words.
