Ethics: Definition, Theories, and Moral Reasoning

Question 1

Which of the following best describes ethical relativism?

Accepted Answer

Ethical principles are based on the norms and values of the society or culture in which they are found.

Answer

Ethical principles are universal and unchanging.

Answer

Ethical beliefs are entirely personal, with no objective right or wrong.

Answer

Ethical rules apply to all individuals, regardless of their culture or circumstances.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental concept in ethics?

Accepted Answer

Scientific experimentation

Answer

Moral reasoning

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Consequentialism

Question 3

According to Immanuel Kant, the morality of an action is determined primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Its compliance with universal moral principles

Answer

Its consequences

Answer

Its impact on personal happiness

Answer

Its conformity to societal norms

Question 4

Which ethical theory maintains that the most ethical action is the one that maximizes overall well-being?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Care ethics

Answer

Social contract theory

Question 5

Which ethical approach emphasizes the development of virtuous character?

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Consequentialism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Care ethics

Question 6

How does ethical egoism differ from psychological egoism?

Accepted Answer

Ethical egoism advocates acting in one's best interests, while psychological egoism describes the common tendency to do so.

Answer

Psychological egoism asserts that all actions are inherently selfish, while ethical egoism does not.

Answer

Ethical egoism is based on rationality, whereas psychological egoism is driven by emotions.

Answer

There is no meaningful distinction between the two.

Question 7

What is a key objective of ethical inquiry?

Accepted Answer

To encourage critical reflection and moral decision-making

Answer

To establish absolute moral truths

Answer

To create a universal moral code

Answer

To resolve all moral conflicts

Question 8

Which definition of ethics is commonly agreed upon?

Accepted Answer

The examination of moral principles

Answer

The examination of human behavior

Answer

The pursuit of societal harmony

Answer

The art of living a good life

Question 9

Which ethical principle requires individuals to treat others as they themselves would expect to be treated?

Accepted Answer

Golden rule

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Question 10

Which method of ethical reasoning involves comparing the potential benefits and harms of different actions?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarian reasoning

Answer

Principle-based reasoning

Answer

Casuistry

Answer

Virtue-based reasoning

Question 11

Which philosopher is renowned for developing the influential ethical theory of the categorical imperative?

Accepted Answer

Immanuel Kant

Answer

John Locke

Answer

Aristotle

Answer

John Stuart Mill

Question 12

Analyze the arguments supporting ethical relativism. Discuss how adopting this perspective can foster global understanding and cooperation.

Accepted Answer

Ethical relativism posits that moral right and wrong are defined by prevailing cultural and societal norms.

Accepted Answer

Ethical relativism suggests that absolute moral truths do not exist.

Answer

Ethical relativism aims to establish universal moral principles that transcend cultural boundaries.

Answer

Ethical relativism and moral absolutism share fundamental similarities.

Question 13

Major Ethical Theory. Which of the following is not considered a significant ethical theory?

Accepted Answer

Structuralism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Existentialism

Question 14

Deontological Ethics. According to deontological ethics, the rightness or wrongness of an action is primarily determined by:

Accepted Answer

Its adherence to established rules and duties.

Answer

Its potential consequences.

Answer

The intentions of the acting individual.

Answer

Its impact on overall well-being and happiness.

Question 15

Virtue Ethics. Which of the following is a central concept in virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Eudaimonia

Answer

The categorical imperative

Answer

The veil of ignorance

Answer

The golden rule

Question 16

Ethical Decision-Making Factors. Which of the following is not a factor that can influence ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Astrological signs

Answer

Personal beliefs and values

Answer

Cultural norms and expectations

Answer

Scientific evidence and research

Question 17

Ethical Principle of Non-Maleficence. What does the ethical principle of non-maleficence dictate?

Accepted Answer

Do no harm to others.

Answer

Maximize happiness and well-being.

Answer

Promote justice and fairness.

Answer

Respect people's autonomy and rights.

Question 18

Which of the following is the most accurate definition of ethics?

Accepted Answer

The systematic study of right and wrong conduct

Answer

A code of conduct enforced by a governing body

Answer

The branch of philosophy that explores the nature of existence

Answer

A set of personal values that guide behavior

Question 19

Which characteristic is NOT typically attributed to ethical principles?

Accepted Answer

They are subjective and vary greatly from person to person

Answer

They provide guidance for decision-making

Answer

They are based on reason and evidence

Answer

They aim to promote human well-being

Question 20

According to deontological ethical theory, what factor takes precedence in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Duty or obligation

Answer

Social norms and customs

Answer

Consequences of the action

Answer

Personal values and beliefs

Question 21

Which type of ethical theory places primary emphasis on the potential outcomes of actions?

Accepted Answer

Teleology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Deontology

Question 22

Which of the following is a significant criticism of consequentialist ethics?

Accepted Answer

It may justify actions that produce desirable outcomes even if they involve harm to individuals

Answer

It relies too heavily on subjective judgments

Answer

It is overly simplistic and does not account for the complexity of ethical situations

Question 23

What is the primary goal of ethical reasoning?

Accepted Answer

To determine the right or wrong course of action in a particular situation

Answer

To establish universal moral laws that apply to all people

Answer

To promote individual happiness and well-being

Question 24

What is the key role of empathy in ethics?

Accepted Answer

It enables us to understand and relate to the perspectives of others

Answer

It is irrelevant to ethical reasoning and should not be considered

Answer

It should be suppressed in ethical decision-making to avoid bias

Question 25

Which of the following is a classic example of an ethical dilemma?

Accepted Answer

Telling the truth and potentially causing harm to someone

Answer

Choosing between two equally desirable options

Answer

Deciding whether to follow the law in all circumstances

Question 26

What is a fundamental reason for the importance of ethical values in society?

Accepted Answer

They provide a framework for appropriate conduct and foster a harmonious social environment

Answer

They ensure that all individuals behave morally all the time

Answer

They are essential for economic prosperity