ETHICS MIDTERM EXAM PRACTICE
QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE
SOLUTIONS
◉ No-Rest Problem
Answer: The criticism that utilitarianism could require you to
constantly maximize happiness instead of allowing you to relax or
pursue your own interests.
◉ Social Contract Theory
Answer: The idea that morality and society are based on an
agreement between people to cooperate and give up some
freedoms for safety and order.
◉ State of Nature
Answer: The condition humans would live in without government
or organized society.
◉ Nonconsequentialism
Answer: The belief that morality does not depend only on
consequences. Duties, rules, intentions, and rights can also
determine morality.
◉ Kant's Ethics
, Answer: The belief that morality is based on reason and duty
rather than consequences.
◉ The Good Will
Answer: Doing something because it is morally right and it is your
duty, not because you expect a reward or benefit.
◉ Hypothetical Imperative
Answer: A command that applies only if you want a certain goal.
Example: If you want an A, study.
◉ Categorical Imperative
Answer: A moral command that applies regardless of what you
want. Example: Do not lie.
◉ Perfect Duties
Answer: Strict moral duties that should always be followed.
Examples include not lying, stealing, or murdering.
◉ Imperfect Duties
Answer: Moral duties that should be followed but allow some
flexibility in how and when you fulfill them. Examples include
helping others and developing your talents.
◉ Formulation of the Universal Law
QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE
SOLUTIONS
◉ No-Rest Problem
Answer: The criticism that utilitarianism could require you to
constantly maximize happiness instead of allowing you to relax or
pursue your own interests.
◉ Social Contract Theory
Answer: The idea that morality and society are based on an
agreement between people to cooperate and give up some
freedoms for safety and order.
◉ State of Nature
Answer: The condition humans would live in without government
or organized society.
◉ Nonconsequentialism
Answer: The belief that morality does not depend only on
consequences. Duties, rules, intentions, and rights can also
determine morality.
◉ Kant's Ethics
, Answer: The belief that morality is based on reason and duty
rather than consequences.
◉ The Good Will
Answer: Doing something because it is morally right and it is your
duty, not because you expect a reward or benefit.
◉ Hypothetical Imperative
Answer: A command that applies only if you want a certain goal.
Example: If you want an A, study.
◉ Categorical Imperative
Answer: A moral command that applies regardless of what you
want. Example: Do not lie.
◉ Perfect Duties
Answer: Strict moral duties that should always be followed.
Examples include not lying, stealing, or murdering.
◉ Imperfect Duties
Answer: Moral duties that should be followed but allow some
flexibility in how and when you fulfill them. Examples include
helping others and developing your talents.
◉ Formulation of the Universal Law
