Ethical theory in a few broad strokes

Meta-Ethics: language of morality Normative Ethics: principles for decision making Applied Ethics: conflicts among concrete duties Moral Psychology: human motivations Normative Ethics: Making lists & seeking the common characteristic On what principle do we judge things to be right or wrong? J K L The Right Thing to Do: a fast and crude summary Relativism: P1: An action is right if and only if it is held to be so by the appropriate body P2: The appropriate body is … a. … the society in which it occurs (Cultural Relativism). b. … you (Individual Relativism). Consequentalism: P1: An action is right if and only if it promotes the best consequences P2: The best consequences are those … a. … that maximize happiness (Utilitarianism). b. … that maximize my happiness (Ethical Egoism). Deontology: P1: An action is right if and only if it is in accord with a moral rule. P2: A moral rule is one that is … a. … commanded by God (Divine Command Theory). b. … required by rationality (Kantian Ethics). Social Contract Theory: P1: An action is right if and only if it is in accord with the social contract P2: The social contract is an agreement among individuals that establishes rules governing their interaction based upon reciprocal benefit. Virtue Theory: P1: An action is right if and only if it is in accord with developing a virtuous character. P2: A virtuous character is one with traits appropriate for human thriving.