Overview
This lecture introduces Part Two of Module One, focusing on key concepts and terminology in moral reasoning, including important distinctions and quiz structure.
Quiz Structure & Expectations
- The upcoming quiz consists of four short-answer questions, each requiring a one-sentence response.
- Most quizzes in the course will be multiple choice or true/false and auto-graded; short-answer quizzes are rare.
- The quiz time limit is 10 minutes, giving ample time per question.
- Answers must reflect the instructor’s definitions and explanations, not information from external sources.
Moral Reasoning & Terminology Topics
- The module covers essential moral terminology and concepts used throughout the course.
- Mastery of this jargon is critical for understanding readings and producing coursework.
- Two videos are assigned: one on moral reasoning and one on moral terminology.
Key Quiz Focus Areas
- One quiz question asks for the instructor's example of moral progress from the lecture.
- Another question requires distinguishing between descriptive claims (what is) and normative claims (what ought to be).
- A third question asks for a clear, uncontroversial example of a morally supererogatory act, following the definition from the lecture.
- The final question covers the difference between intrinsic value (value in itself) and instrumental value (value as a means).
Video & Course Logistics
- The moral reasoning and terminology video is reused from a past course and is longer than future videos.
- Future videos will aim to be 15–20 minutes, never more than 30 minutes.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Descriptive Claim — a statement describing how things are.
- Normative Claim — a statement about how things should or ought to be.
- Moral Progress — improvement in moral beliefs, practices, or attitudes within a society or individual.
- Supererogatory — morally good actions that go beyond duty or obligation.
- Intrinsic Value — value something has in itself.
- Instrumental Value — value something has as a means to achieve something else.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Watch both assigned videos on moral reasoning and terminology.
- Prepare to answer quiz questions using the instructor’s definitions and examples.
- Avoid using external sources or AI for quiz responses.