Which theory posits morality is judged by adherence to universal laws?

Which theory posits morality is judged by adherence to universal laws?

• A. Utilitarianism
• B. Natural Law
• C. Ethical Formalism
• D. Virtue Ethics

Answer: (C)

Morality is judged by adherence to universal laws that reason can recognize as binding for all. Ethical Formalism, often associated with Kant, holds that actions are right or wrong not by their outcomes but by whether they follow duties and maxims that could be willed as universal laws. In other words, you should act according to principles you could reasonably want everyone to follow in similar situations. The test is whether the guiding rule behind your action could be universalized without contradiction. For example, lying to get out of trouble uses a maxim like “If it helps me, I may lie,” which could not be universalized without destroying trust, so it’s not morally permissible. This emphasis on universal duties sets Ethical Formalism apart from other theories: utilitarianism judges morality by consequences and overall happiness; natural law grounds duties in human nature and the natural order; virtue ethics focuses on character and the cultivation of virtuous traits rather than universal rules.

Morality is judged by adherence to universal laws that reason can recognize as binding for all. Ethical Formalism, often associated with Kant, holds that actions are right or wrong not by their outcomes but by whether they follow duties and maxims that could be willed as universal laws. In other words, you should act according to principles you could reasonably want everyone to follow in similar situations. The test is whether the guiding rule behind your action could be universalized without contradiction. For example, lying to get out of trouble uses a maxim like “If it helps me, I may lie,” which could not be universalized without destroying trust, so it’s not morally permissible. This emphasis on universal duties sets Ethical Formalism apart from other theories: utilitarianism judges morality by consequences and overall happiness; natural law grounds duties in human nature and the natural order; virtue ethics focuses on character and the cultivation of virtuous traits rather than universal rules.