Ethics
Mid-term questions & answers
2018-2019
1
, Questions
1. In ethics, a well-known argumentative flaw is the naturalistic fallacy. Explain what
this is and give an example. (2pt)
2. Explain the difference between a finite and an infinite game by using the antique
dealer case. Argue for a position.
3. During the lecture on moral markets, the so called classical paradigm and the central
role of the homo economicus was discussed. How would you characterize this paradigm?
Refer to Bernnard de Mandeville and his text “the fable of the bees”.
4. Adam Smith’s thinking is often associated with the classical paradigm. In what way is
it inaccurate to attribute this paradigm to Smith?. In your argument, make use of this 2
main books (4pt.)
5. The Ford Pinto was released in 1970 by Ford. The release of the car lead to a lot of
controversy. Ford used a utilitatian line of reasoning to justify their decision to not recall
the cars. Reconstruct the case, give the general formulation of utilitarianism and explain
Ford’s argument (3pt)
6. Criticize Ford’s utilitarian argumentation using Kant. Make sure your accurately define
and formulate the Categorical Imperative. (6pt)
2
Mid-term questions & answers
2018-2019
1
, Questions
1. In ethics, a well-known argumentative flaw is the naturalistic fallacy. Explain what
this is and give an example. (2pt)
2. Explain the difference between a finite and an infinite game by using the antique
dealer case. Argue for a position.
3. During the lecture on moral markets, the so called classical paradigm and the central
role of the homo economicus was discussed. How would you characterize this paradigm?
Refer to Bernnard de Mandeville and his text “the fable of the bees”.
4. Adam Smith’s thinking is often associated with the classical paradigm. In what way is
it inaccurate to attribute this paradigm to Smith?. In your argument, make use of this 2
main books (4pt.)
5. The Ford Pinto was released in 1970 by Ford. The release of the car lead to a lot of
controversy. Ford used a utilitatian line of reasoning to justify their decision to not recall
the cars. Reconstruct the case, give the general formulation of utilitarianism and explain
Ford’s argument (3pt)
6. Criticize Ford’s utilitarian argumentation using Kant. Make sure your accurately define
and formulate the Categorical Imperative. (6pt)
2
