Causation and Ethics

Description: This quiz covers the concepts of causation and ethics, exploring the relationship between actions, consequences, and moral responsibility.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: causation ethics moral responsibility consequences
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Which philosophical theory emphasizes the idea that an action is morally right if it produces the best possible outcome?

  1. Utilitarianism

  2. Deontology

  3. Virtue ethics

  4. Existentialism


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory that evaluates the morality of an action based on its overall consequences. It holds that the right action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

According to the principle of double effect, when is it morally permissible to cause harm as a side effect of an otherwise good action?

  1. When the harm is unintended and unavoidable

  2. When the harm is proportionate to the good achieved

  3. When the harm is caused to a non-human animal

  4. When the harm is caused to a person who has consented


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The principle of double effect states that it is morally permissible to cause harm as a side effect of an otherwise good action if the harm is unintended and unavoidable, the good achieved outweighs the harm, and the action is not intrinsically evil.

Which ethical theory emphasizes the importance of following moral rules and principles, regardless of the consequences?

  1. Utilitarianism

  2. Deontology

  3. Virtue ethics

  4. Existentialism


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Deontology is a non-consequentialist theory that evaluates the morality of an action based on its adherence to moral rules and principles. It holds that the right action is the one that conforms to these rules, regardless of the consequences.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it is in accordance with one's own moral beliefs and values?

  1. Moral relativism

  2. Moral absolutism

  3. Moral universalism

  4. Moral skepticism


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Moral relativism is the view that there is no one objective standard of morality, and that what is considered right or wrong varies from person to person or culture to culture.

According to virtue ethics, what is the primary goal of moral action?

  1. To maximize happiness

  2. To follow moral rules and principles

  3. To develop and exercise moral virtues

  4. To achieve self-realization


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Virtue ethics is a theory that emphasizes the importance of developing and exercising moral virtues, such as courage, honesty, and justice. It holds that the right action is the one that is in accordance with these virtues.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it is in accordance with the will of God?

  1. Divine command theory

  2. Natural law theory

  3. Utilitarianism

  4. Deontology


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The divine command theory is the view that the morality of an action is determined by whether or not it is in accordance with the will of God. It holds that what is right or wrong is ultimately determined by God's commands.

Which ethical theory emphasizes the importance of acting in a way that is consistent with one's own authentic self?

  1. Existentialism

  2. Virtue ethics

  3. Utilitarianism

  4. Deontology


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Existentialism is a theory that emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and choice. It holds that the right action is the one that is in accordance with one's own authentic self, rather than external moral rules or principles.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it is in accordance with the laws of nature?

  1. Natural law theory

  2. Divine command theory

  3. Utilitarianism

  4. Deontology


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Natural law theory is the view that there are certain moral principles that are objectively true and binding on all human beings. It holds that these principles are derived from the laws of nature and are discoverable through reason.

According to the principle of non-maleficence, what is the primary duty of a healthcare professional?

  1. To do no harm

  2. To maximize patient autonomy

  3. To provide beneficence

  4. To respect patient confidentiality


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The principle of non-maleficence is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare that requires healthcare professionals to avoid causing harm to patients. It is considered a primary duty that takes precedence over other ethical considerations.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it is motivated by a desire to do good?

  1. Beneficence

  2. Non-maleficence

  3. Justice

  4. Autonomy


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Beneficence is the ethical principle that requires healthcare professionals to act in a way that benefits patients. It involves taking positive steps to promote the patient's well-being and prevent harm.

According to the principle of respect for autonomy, what is the primary duty of a healthcare professional?

  1. To respect patient autonomy

  2. To do no harm

  3. To provide beneficence

  4. To respect patient confidentiality


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The principle of respect for autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare that requires healthcare professionals to respect the patient's right to make decisions about their own care. It involves providing the patient with information, supporting their decision-making process, and respecting their choices.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it treats all people equally and fairly?

  1. Justice

  2. Autonomy

  3. Beneficence

  4. Non-maleficence


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Justice is the ethical principle that requires healthcare professionals to treat all patients equally and fairly. It involves distributing resources equitably, respecting patient rights, and avoiding discrimination.

According to the principle of confidentiality, what is the primary duty of a healthcare professional?

  1. To respect patient confidentiality

  2. To do no harm

  3. To provide beneficence

  4. To respect patient autonomy


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The principle of confidentiality is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare that requires healthcare professionals to keep patient information private. It involves protecting the patient's privacy, maintaining the confidentiality of their medical records, and only disclosing information with the patient's consent.

What is the term for the idea that an action is morally right if it is motivated by a desire to avoid harm?

  1. Non-maleficence

  2. Beneficence

  3. Justice

  4. Autonomy


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that requires healthcare professionals to avoid causing harm to patients. It involves taking steps to prevent harm, minimizing risks, and avoiding treatments that are likely to cause more harm than benefit.

According to the principle of veracity, what is the primary duty of a healthcare professional?

  1. To be truthful with patients

  2. To do no harm

  3. To provide beneficence

  4. To respect patient confidentiality


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The principle of veracity is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare that requires healthcare professionals to be truthful with patients. It involves providing patients with accurate information about their condition, treatment options, and prognosis, and answering their questions honestly.

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