Oakham's Razor
The explanation with the fewest assumptions is more likely to be true.
Principle of Conservatism
The explanation consistent with other well-established beliefs is more likely to be true.
Enumerative Inductive Argument
Drawing conclusions based on the number and variety of cases.
Inference to the Best Explanation
Drawing conclusions based on the best possible explanation for a phenomenon.
Straw Man
Misrepresenting an opponent's view for easy dismissal.
Begging the Question
An argument where accepting the conclusion is necessary to accept the premises.
Domino Argument Fallacy
Assuming significant events will follow if a certain event occurs without warrant.
Line Drawing Fallacy
Rejecting a vague claim due to lack of precision.
Equivocation
An argument with ambiguous words or phrases whose meaning shifts.
Sufficient Condition
Criteria that, once met, is all that is needed.
Ethical Relativism
Individuals or cultures determine right or wrong actions.
Ethical Objectivism
At least some ethical standards are true for everyone.
Moral Nihilism
Belief that there are no moral truths.
Divine Command Theory
Good determines right and wrong actions.
Utilitarianism
Maximizing happiness and well-being of those affected by actions.
Euthyphro's Dilemma
Moral rightness due to God's command or God commands due to moral rightness.
Lower Pleasures
Pleasures from sentience.
Higher Pleasures
Pleasures from reasoning ability.
Principle of Humanity
Treat people as ends in themselves, not mere means.
Kant's Four Examples
Lying, suicide, wasting talents, not helping others as moral contradictions.
Virtue
Moral virtue as a mean between two vices.
Eudaimonia
True happiness or flourishing.
Moral Agents
Those responsible for their actions and know right from wrong.
Principle of Nonmaleficence
Avoid causing unnecessary harm to others.
Principle of Justice
Equals should be treated equally.
Qualitative Identity
Things are qualitatively identical if they share similar features.
Numerical Identity
Things are numerically identical if they are one and the same.
Four Theories of Personal Identity
Body, Soul, Memory, Illusion theories.
Locke's Definition of a Person
An intelligent being with reason and consciousness.
Direct Memory
A memory that can be consciously recalled at the moment.
Aristotle's Four Causes
Material, Formal, Efficient, Final causes.
Moral Implication
Encourages equal treatment of all.
Practical Implication
Provides a way to live free from desire and false beliefs.