Introductory Paragraph Quiz

Natural law is an [blank_start]ethical[blank_end] theory developed by St Thomas Aquinas, influenced by [blank_start]Aristotle[blank_end]’s philosophy. It is an [blank_start]absolutist[blank_end] theory, meaning it is unchangeable and equal for everyone, for example: killing is always wrong. It is also a [blank_start]deontological[blank_end] theory, meaning actions are judged based on intention and duty of the person themselves, as opposed to the consequence provoked. The theory is based on [blank_start]reason[blank_end], believed to be innate, [blank_start]a priori[blank_end] knowledge (prior to experience) given by God from birth. This ‘reason’ dictates a [blank_start]right or wrong[blank_end] action.

Kantian ethics is an ethical theory developed by Immanuel Kant, a [blank_start]philosopher[blank_end] from the Enlightenment period. He believed you could use [blank_start]reason[blank_end] to determine morality without any influence from [blank_start]God[blank_end]. It is an absolutist theory, meaning all situations must be [blank_start]objectively[blank_end] handled as all rules apply to everyone equally, for example: stealing is always wrong. It is also a deontological theory, meaning it is based on [blank_start]intention[blank_end], sense of duty and good will - which Kant believes is the highest form of good to carry out, as it is innate moral duty.

Utilitarianism is a non-religious, ethical theory first developed by Jeremy Bentham and further revised by John Stuart Mill. It is a [blank_start]relativist[blank_end] theory, looking at each situation [blank_start]subjectively[blank_end] and individually as opposed to abiding by strict rules of how to resolve it. It is also a [blank_start]teleological[blank_end] theory, focusing on the consequence of the action performed rather than the intention of the action. Alongside this, it is based on a posteriori knowledge - knowledge gained [blank_start]after[blank_end] experience. It is based on [blank_start]pleasure over pain[blank_end], the principle of utility instructing us to do that which will bring the greatest happiness to the greatest number.

Christians come from a range of [blank_start]denominations[blank_end], each containing different views of Christianity within them. Examples of these are [blank_start]fundamentalists[blank_end], protestants and [blank_start]evangelicals[blank_end], to name a few. There are many reason divisions within the Christian community exist, but the main divider is the source of [blank_start]authority[blank_end] that a particular group follows and their interpretation of it. For example, the Bible is believed to be the Word of God for all Christians -but very different and complex interpretations can be made and practiced from it - either read [blank_start]literally[blank_end], perceived to contain a more spiritual message or adapted to modern times.