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PHL 309 Discussion#1
1. What is the connection between knowledge and moral conduct in Plato’s moral
theory? What arguments can be put forward to support his view, and what can be said
against it?
2. Plato believes the universe to be basically good. Do you believe, on the basis of your
own experience, that such optimism is justified? If not, why not?
3. Is Aristotle right in saying that everything aims at the good? Is the statement true of
you?
4. What does Aristotle mean by “virtue”? What are the two kinds of virtue? Which is
higher? Do you agree with Aristotle on this point?
5. In what respects do the ethical theories of Plato and Aristotle stand in sharp contrast?
In what respects are they alike?
6. Why does Moore say that “good” is indefinable? Why does he think this point is so
important?
7. According to Epicurus, the most pleasant life is that of the philosopher. Why did he
say this? Do you think he is right? Would you like to live in his “garden”?
8. What does Bentham mean by the principle of utility?
9. What does Mill mean by the theory of pleasure?
10. If you decided that hedonism was the philosophy for you, would you follow the
version of Bentham or of Mill? Justify your answer.
11. What is Kant’s revolution for moral philosophy? Distinguish between hypothetical
imperatives and categorical imperative, heteronomy and autonomy, rationality and
emotionality. Which alone can command morally? Why?
12. What does mean by a “prima facie duty”? How does he distinguish it from an actual
duty? How can each be known?