Explain the difference between ethical egoism, ethical altruism, and utilitarianism, as different forms of consequentialism.

Ethical egoism focuses on maximizing favorable consequences for oneself, ethical altruism focuses on maximizing favorable consequences for others, and utilitarianism focuses on maximizing overall favorable consequences for everyone.

According to Kantian deontology, what is the 'categorical imperative,' and how does it guide moral action?

The categorical imperative is a principle that states one should only act on maxims that could become universal laws and to treat every person as an end, not merely as a means.

How does virtue ethics differ from consequentialism and deontology in its approach to moral decision-making?

Virtue ethics focuses on developing good character traits (virtues) and acting as a virtuous person would, rather than focusing on consequences or rules.

Describe a situation where consequentialism and deontology might lead to different moral conclusions. Explain why these differences arise.

A situation could be lying to protect someone from harm. Consequentialism might justify the lie if it leads to the best overall outcome, while deontology might condemn lying as inherently wrong, regardless of the consequences.

Ethical Dilemmas and Frameworks

12Social Studies39 min

Learning Objective

I can evaluate ethical dilemmas using different philosophical frameworks.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

Three Moral Theories | Normative Ethics

Philosopher Games

Guided Notes

8 min

Key concepts students will learn:

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Normative ethics examines our moral relations, and includes moral theories such as consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics.
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Consequentialism focuses on maximizing favorable consequences, with versions like ethical egoism, ethical altruism, and utilitarianism.
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Deontology, or duty theories, emphasize motives, intentions, and following rules, with Kantianism being a prominent version based on the categorical imperative.

Practice

12 min

6 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Describe a scenario where a person must decide whether to lie to protect someone's feelings. Evaluate this dilemma from a consequentialist, deontological (Kantian), and virtue ethics perspective. Explain how each framework would approach the decision.”

Teacher Guide

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Ethical Dilemmas and Frameworks

Learning Objective

Lesson Flow

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Guided Notes

Practice

Exit Ticket

Teacher Guide

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