Moral Theory Questions

1. Is a moral theory the final authority in moral reasoning? Why or why not? (p. 66)
   No, moral theory only seeks to explain what makes an action right. Moral theories
   seek to ensure that individuals are given norms and standards that can be applied in making
   decisions involving ethical dilemmas. The standards that are provided in moral theory are
   largely general but are grounded in substance, thus informing moral reasoning. Moral theory
   helps in shedding light on how tough choices can be made and how the choices can be
   aligned with morality. From a moral theory, one cannot derive strict logical fashion principles
   or judgments. Real-world cases cannot be solved using moral theory alone. Moral theory is
   founded on theoretical principles that fail to give tailored answers. Careful deliberations that
   involve the analysis of the existing data are needed in order to come up with moral
   judgments.
2. What is the difference between a moral theory and a moral code? (p. 66)
   Moral theories seek to explain and define actions that are right. On the other hand, a
   moral code is a cluster of rules. Moral theory helps define morality and thus aids in the
   making of righteous discissions. The moral theory also helps in the formation of moral
   principles while facilitating the resolution of conflicts that may exist between moral
   statements. A moral theory is more useful compared to a moral code. Rules in a moral code
   may conflict, and a moral code does not offer a way of resolving these conflicts. To this end,
   while moral codes are important in everyday life, they cannot substitute moral theories.
3. How can a moral theory be used in a moral argument? (p. 66)
   Moral theories and moral arguments are closely related. In moral arguments, one can
   use a premise in moral theory. In addition, in an argument, many times, the premise is hinged
   upon a moral theory. Premises in moral arguments are mainly derived from moral theory.

MORAL THEORY ESSAY 3
Testing the premise of a moral argument may be done through an examination of the moral
theory itself.

4. What is considered moral judgment? (p. 66)
   Moral judgments are arguments advanced by philosophers. Moral judgments must be
   made from the careful examination of the issues as well as the elimination of the existing
   biases.
5. What are the two main categories of moral theories? (p. 67)
   The two major categories of moral theories are consequentialist and non-
   consequentialist. Consequentialists are moral theories that weigh an action based on the
   consequences. The product of action defines the morality or lack of it in any given action.
   They define positive outcomes to include happiness, knowledge, and pleasure. Non-
   consequentialist theories do not evaluate the morality of an action based on the consequences
   but rather on the nature of the action itself. The good or bad that result from a certain action
   plays no role in defining whether or not the action is ethical.
6. What is utilitarianism? ethical egoism? (pp. 67–68)
   Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that weighs the ethical nature of an action based on
   the consequences. An ethical action according to utilitarianism is one that produces the
   greatest good for the greatest number. Consideration needs to be given to all players making
   the decision. Ethical egoism, on the other hand, dictates that action is morally right based on
   the consequences of the said action on the individual. One should thus select the action that
   takes care of their interests.
7. According to Kant’s moral theory, what makes an action right? (pp. 68–69)
   Kant based his moral theory on the maxim of the categorical imperative. An action is
   only moral if it’s done in line with the maxim of the categorical imperative. Categorical

MORAL THEORY ESSAY 4
imperative is a rule that applies to all individuals. An action’s morality should not be
conditional or based on the outcome.

8. What are the three moral criteria of adequacy? (pp. 71–74)
   The first criterion is evaluating whether or not the theory is consistent with moral
   judgments. Any theory must explain the data that is intended to explain. A theory that fails
   this test is seen as dubious. For example, if a theory approves the killing of innocent citizens,
   there is a problem with the theory. The second criterion is that a theory must be in line with
   our moral experiences. A moral theory must fit existing scientific knowledge and beliefs that
   have already been established. The third criterion is that the theory must prove useful in
   solving moral problems. Any moral theory is designed to aid in moral dilemmas. It must
   therefore help solve moral problems.