PHIL 333 Exam 350 Questions Prep – Utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics & Moral Skepticism 2026

This document contains approximately 350 comprehensive exam-style questions and verified answers for PHIL 333, focusing on core ethical theories and philosophical reasoning. It begins with foundational concepts such as the definition of ethics as the study of “what is good” and introduces major positions like moral skepticism, including nihilism, subjectivism, and relativism (page 1–2), before expanding into deeper theoretical frameworks. The material provides in-depth coverage of major ethical theories, including utilitarianism (Bentham and Mill), deontology (Kant), and care ethics. It explores key principles such as the greatest happiness principle, higher vs. lower pleasures, and Bentham’s seven criteria for measuring pleasure (e.g., intensity, duration, certainty). It also examines distinctions between act and rule utilitarianism, addressing classic dilemmas like sacrificing one to save many. Additionally, the document thoroughly analyzes moral skepticism and relativism, including arguments such as the cultural differences argument and critiques by philosophers like James Rachels. It highlights important philosophical concepts such as moral progress, moral error, tolerance arguments, and the limitations of skepticism in evaluating ethical truth. The content further explores Kantian ethics, including the categorical imperative, universalization test, and the principle of treating individuals as ends in themselves rather than means. For example, later sections (pages 19–22) explain applications of Kant’s theory to real scenarios such as promise-breaking, coercion, and deception, emphasizing rationality and duty-based morality. It also includes discussions on ethical caring theory, natural vs. ethical caring, and the role of moral obligation in relationships. The document integrates both theoretical explanations and applied examples, making it highly effective for exam preparation and philosophical understanding. This resource is ideal for students enrolled in PHIL 333 or similar ethics, philosophy, or humanities courses. It is particularly useful for undergraduate philosophy students, pre-law students, and anyone studying moral theory, ethical reasoning, or applied ethics. It also supports courses in political philosophy, ethics, and critical thinking. The content aligns with standard philosophy textbooks such as The Elements of Moral Philosophy by James Rachels and Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill, ensuring academic accuracy and relevance. It serves as a complete and in-depth study guide for mastering ethical theories and succeeding on philosophy exams. Keywords: PHIL 333 exam prep, moral skepticism nihilism subjectivism relativism, ethical objectivism philosophy, utilitarianism Bentham Mill, greatest happiness principle, act vs rule utilitarianism, categorical imperative Kant, deontology ethics theory, cultural relativism argument, moral progress philosophy, care ethics theory, ethical caring natural caring, universalization test Kant, philosophy ethics questions