Wednesday, January 11, 2006

PHI 2604 Chapter 2 Homework (for two weeks)

Part one:

1.What's the difference between consequentialist and nonconsequentialist (or deontological)theories?
2. Define "Egoism." Provide examples.a) What are some of the misconceptions about Egoism?
3. Identify the term "Psychological Egoism"? In which way is P.E. different from Ethical Egoism described in 2. above?
4. Enumerate the problems presented by Egoism.
5. Explain "Utilitarianism." Provide examples.
6. Go over the six points addressing utilitarianism as they appear on pp. 61, 62.
7. Go over some of the critiques of Utilitarianism.
8. In what sense is business practice "utilitarian" according to Adam Smith (while fostering self-interest?).

Part two:

1. What's the meaning of "good will" according to Kant?
2. Define Kant's catergorical imperative.
3. Explain the difference between a categorical and a hypothetical prescription.
4.What does Kant mean by "universal acceptability"?
5. State Kant's second formulation. Why is a person an "end" rather than a "means to an end"?
6. Go over some of the critical inquires of Kant's theory.
7. What is a prima facie duty?
8. Following W.D. Ross, establish a hierarchy of prima facie duties.
9. What is a right?
10. Establish the difference between positive and negative rights.
11. Can human rights be justified?

3 comments:

  1. I don't see the syllabus for PHI 2604, is it the same as for the other PHI? Thanks. Anna.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anna. The PHI 2604 syllabus is in the August 2005 archives.

    ReplyDelete
  3. The new syllabus is already posted.

    ReplyDelete