Ethichs Midterm

Midterm Assessment Ethics

The midterm assessment is meant for summary and reflection on the ethical theories of Utilitarianism, as represented by J.S. Mill; Deontology, as represented by Immanuel Kant; and Virtue Ethics as represented by Aristotle found in your e-Text Ethics: Theory and Contemporary Issues. For each midterm question there needs to be: 1. 1-2 pages summarizing the major concepts of the theory 2. 1-2 pages reflecting on and responding to the view.

The criteria for evaluation are as follows: • accurate representation of each ethical theory, with use of appropriate text support

from your e-Text • thoughtful and critical inquiry about the central arguments of the theory

Answer two (2) out of the three (3) following essays

1.) Discuss the theory of Utilitarianism, as stated by Mill and as outlined in Chapter 5 of your e-Text. Be sure to include in your discussion central concepts of the theory, including but not limited to: the greatest happiness principle, Mill’s definition of happiness, and the hierarchy of pleasures (quality and quantity). Offer both positive and negative critique of the theory.

2.) Discuss the theory of Deontology, as stated by Kant and as outlined in Chapter 6 of your e-Text. Be sure to include in your discussion central concepts of the theory, including but not limited to: the good will, duty, hypothetical vs. categorical imperatives, Kant’s two formulations of the categorical imperative, perfect vs. imperfect duties, and his philosophy of human nature. Offer both positive and negative critique of the theory.

3.) Discuss the theory of Virtue Ethics, as stated by Aristotle, and as outlined in Chapter 8 of your e-Text. Be sure to include in your discussion central concepts of the theory, including but not limited to: teleology, Aristotle’s definition of happiness (eudaimonia), moral vs. intellectual virtue, and the “Golden Mean.” In addition, how is Aristotle’s emphasis on the character of the moral agent different from Utilitarian and Deontological theories? Offer both positive and negative critique of the theory.