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Study Guide for the 2nd Ethics Quiz

The quiz will consist of a number of short answer questions. For each of the philosophers we have covered, you should be able to give an account of their basic ideas and apply these ideas to a concrete situation.  You should also know some major criticisms that can be offered of each philosopher.  I may give you a quotation from one of the philosophers that we have studied and ask you to explain that quotation. If you have had any difficulties with the main text, Palmer's Does the Center Hold? will be of great help. 

1.       This exam is cumulative.  Please review the material from the first study guide.

2.       Review Mill.  The following list of central claims that help you with that review.

1. The only intrinsic good is happiness.
2. The utilitarianism maxim defines justice. Be able to state this.
3. Mill formulates many criticisms of utilitarianism and answers them.  He discusses the distinction between the quality and quantity of happiness.
4. There is a vigorous defense of liberty and minority rights.  Be able to state Mill’s thesis about the legitimate restriction of liberty.  Know how he defends this thesis.
5. There is a limitation on the scope of government and a rejection of paternalism.
6. Democracy with universal suffrage (including women) is advocated, but even a democracy should not be able to abrogate the rights of its citizens.
7. Oppression does not really benefit oppressors.

3.       Review just war theory.  You should know the four criteria that must be met for a war to be just according to this theory, and you should be able to apply these criteria.  You should also know how someone might argue against these criteria.  In addition, you should be acquainted with the criteria for fighting justly within a just war according to this theory.

4.       You should be able to present and to evaluate arguments for and against the U.S. action in Iraq.  Know the positions put forward by President Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell and by at least two opponents of the war.

5.       This exam will include at least one quotation from a philosopher.  You will be asked to name the philosopher and to explain the quotation.

6.       U.S. citizens may receive extra credit on this exam for showing me proof of voting.  Citizens of other countries may make alternative arrangements with me to receive extra credit.