Ethics & Moral Philosophy Vocabulary

ethical theory that judges actions by adherence to rules or duties

“Deontology holds that some acts are wrong regardless of consequences.”

ethical theory judging actions by their outcomes

“Consequentialism asks whether an action produces more good than harm.”

ethical theory focused on character rather than rules or outcomes

“Virtue ethics asks what a person of good character would do.”

Kant's principle that one should act only according to universalizable maxims

“The categorical imperative forbids lying even to save a life.”

the view that moral judgments are not universally valid

“Moral relativism suggests ethics vary across cultures.”

relating to standards of right and wrong conduct

“Normative ethics prescribes how we ought to behave.”

the study of the nature and foundations of moral thought

“Metaethics asks whether moral facts exist.”

the view that pleasure is the highest good

“Ethical hedonism holds that pleasure alone has intrinsic value.”

selfless concern for the welfare of others

“Effective altruism applies reason to doing the most good.”

the capacity for self-governance and independent moral choice

“Respect for autonomy is central to medical ethics.”