The Shipwrecked Sailors: A Moral Dilemma

Question 1

In extreme survival situations, which principle suggests that actions typically deemed unethical may be justified to preserve life?

Accepted Answer

Necessity

Answer

Cannibalism

Answer

Immediate Threat

Answer

Survival Priority

Question 2

Utilitarianism suggests that, in this situation, the most ethical action is to:

Accepted Answer

Sacrifice one life for the survival of others

Answer

Absolutely reject cannibalism

Answer

Decide by random selection who will be sacrificed

Answer

Hold out indefinitely for potential rescue

Question 3

Which philosopher's view, emphasizing that the end justifies the means, may support cannibalism in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Niccolò Machiavelli

Answer

Immanuel Kant

Answer

Aristotle

Answer

John Stuart Mill

Question 4

In this scenario, understanding 'consent' is particularly significant because:

Accepted Answer

It is difficult to obtain in such extreme circumstances

Answer

It can validate cannibalism if the person being sacrificed agrees

Answer

It absolves all moral concerns about the act

Answer

It is irrelevant, as survival is paramount

Question 5

Which factor would NOT impact the ethical implications of cannibalism in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Personality of the shipwrecked captain

Answer

Availability of alternative food sources

Answer

Number of individuals involved

Answer

Cultural norms of the shipwrecked society

Question 6

The 'Slippery Slope' argument against cannibalism suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Once accepted, it could lead to uncontrolled spread

Answer

It is morally equivalent to murder

Answer

It will result in a decline in societal values

Answer

It will make future rescues less likely

Question 7

When faced with the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' dilemma, the most appropriate ethical response ultimately depends on:

Accepted Answer

The specific circumstances of the situation

Answer

A fixed set of universal moral principles

Answer

The decision made by the shipwrecked captain

Answer

The consensus reached among the crew

Question 8

According to the 'ends justify the means' theory, cannibalism could be considered permissible if it is:

Accepted Answer

Necessary for survival

Answer

Consensual among the sailors

Answer

The only option to prevent harm to others

Answer

Based on religious principles

Question 9

According to Immanuel Kant's 'categorical imperative', cannibalism is:

Accepted Answer

Always wrong, as it violates the principle of universalizability

Answer

Permissible if it is the only way to save innocent lives

Answer

Acceptable if it is motivated by compassion

Answer

Ethical if it is based on a religious commandment

Question 10

The 'golden rule' in ethics emphasizes the principle of:

Accepted Answer

Treat others as you would want to be treated

Answer

Always choose the action that results in the greatest happiness

Answer

Never take actions that you cannot consistently will as a universal law

Answer

Respect the laws and regulations of society

Question 11

The 'slippery slope fallacy' warns against:

Accepted Answer

Making small ethical concessions that could lead to major transgressions

Answer

Ignoring ethical principles in the pursuit of personal gain

Answer

Relying too heavily on emotions in ethical decision-making

Answer

Assuming that everyone will act ethically in all situations

Question 12

The 'shipwrecked sailors' dilemma' is primarily used to:

Accepted Answer

Test the limits of ethical theories and decision-making in extreme situations

Answer

Demonstrate the superiority of one ethical theory over others

Answer

Argue that ethical principles should always be followed regardless of the consequences

Answer

Promote the idea that cannibalism is an acceptable practice in extreme circumstances

Question 13

The concept of 'autonomy' in the context of this dilemma refers to:

Accepted Answer

The right of each sailor to make their own ethical choices

Answer

The duty of the ship's captain to make decisions for the group

Answer

The responsibility of individuals to act in accordance with their own moral beliefs

Answer

The need for external authorities to impose ethical guidelines

Question 14

In the shipwreck scenario, the central ethical dilemma is:

Accepted Answer

Whether or not it is morally acceptable to take a life to sustain others

Answer

Whether or not it is morally permissible to consume human flesh

Answer

Whether or not it is morally required to sacrifice oneself for others

Answer

Whether or not it is morally permissible to take risks to preserve one's own life

Question 15

Which ethical theory emphasizes the maximization of overall well-being and would most strongly support the idea that cannibalism is permissible in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Kantianism

Answer

Natural law theory

Answer

Existentialism

Question 16

According to Kantian ethics, the morality of killing one person to save others:

Accepted Answer

Is always wrong, regardless of the circumstances

Answer

Is permissible if the victim consents

Answer

Is permissible if the benefit to others outweighs the harm to the victim

Answer

Is permissible if there is no other way to save the others

Question 17

In the context of the shipwreck scenario, the role of reason in ethical decision-making is to:

Accepted Answer

Weigh the different ethical considerations

Answer

Be the sole guide for ethical decisions

Answer

Determine the facts of the situation

Answer

Have no role in ethical decision-making

Question 18

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, which ethical theory emphasizes maximizing overall well-being?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Kantianism

Answer

Existentialism

Answer

Virtue ethics

Question 19

Which of the following is a core principle of Kantian ethics?

Accepted Answer

Actions are morally right if they are based on universal moral rules.

Answer

Actions are morally right if they produce the most overall happiness.

Answer

Actions are morally right if they are in accordance with our cultural norms.

Answer

Actions are morally right if they lead to personal fulfillment.

Question 20

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' dilemma, what is the central ethical conflict?

Accepted Answer

Individual rights versus the well-being of the group

Answer

Duty versus compassion

Answer

Justice versus mercy

Answer

Autonomy versus responsibility

Question 21

Which ethical theory prioritizes the consequences of an action in determining its morality?

Accepted Answer

Teleology

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue Ethics

Answer

Divine Command Theory

Question 22

According to Immanuel Kant's Categorical Imperative, an action is morally permissible if:

Accepted Answer

Its maxim could be universally applied without contradiction

Answer

It brings about the best possible outcome

Answer

It aligns with one's personal virtues

Answer

It is commanded by a divine authority

Question 23

The concept of 'social contract' implies that individuals in a society:

Accepted Answer

Give up certain freedoms for protection and societal benefits

Answer

Owe absolute loyalty to the state

Answer

Can only rebel against oppressive governments

Answer

Must adhere to all laws without question

Question 24

Which principle is NOT a central ethical consideration in the Shipwrecked Sailors dilemma?

Accepted Answer

Economic efficiency

Answer

Respect for autonomy

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 25

The Shipwrecked Sailors dilemma can be categorized as a:

Accepted Answer

Moral dilemma

Answer

Logical paradox

Answer

Scientific experiment

Answer

Historical analysis

Question 26

Ethical egoism suggests that individuals should:

Accepted Answer

Act in their own self-interest, regardless of consequences

Answer

Prioritize the well-being of others over their own

Answer

Balance their self-interest with the needs of society

Answer

Follow moral rules unconditionally

Question 27

Which ethical framework emphasizes the cultivation of virtues, such as wisdom and justice, as the foundation of ethical action?

Accepted Answer

Virtue Ethics

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Teleology

Answer

Divine Command Theory

Question 28

The Shipwrecked Sailors dilemma highlights the potential:

Accepted Answer

Limits of human morality in extreme situations

Answer

Universal applicability of ethical principles

Answer

Irrelevance of ethics in decision-making

Answer

Superiority of religious morality over secular ethics

Question 29

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' dilemma, which ethical principle prioritizes the preservation of human life over all other considerations?

Accepted Answer

Absolutism

Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Relativism

Answer

Nihilism

Question 30

Which philosophical perspective emphasizes the consequences of one's actions when making moral judgments?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Existentialism

Question 31

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, the concept of human dignity is primarily associated with the ethical principle of:

Accepted Answer

Respect for persons

Answer

Rights and duties

Answer

Justice and fairness

Answer

Common good

Question 32

According to Immanuel Kant's moral theory, in the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, cannibalism would be considered:

Accepted Answer

Morally unacceptable regardless of the circumstances

Answer

Morally acceptable if it is the only way to survive

Answer

Morally acceptable if it is done with the consent of the victim

Answer

Morally acceptable if it leads to the greatest good

Question 33

Which of the following is a factor NOT considered relevant in evaluating the ethical implications of cannibalism in the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario?

Accepted Answer

Legal consequences of cannibalism

Answer

Likelihood of survival

Answer

Cultural background of the individuals

Answer

Religious views of the individuals

Question 34

Which of the following arguments against cannibalism focuses on its potential long-term effects on the participants?

Accepted Answer

It may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder

Answer

It violates the social contract

Answer

It erodes human dignity

Answer

It goes against natural law

Question 35

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, the concept of 'moral luck' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The influence of unforeseen circumstances on the ethical implications of an action

Answer

The role of intentions in determining the morality of an action

Answer

The impact of cultural norms on ethical decision-making

Answer

The consequences of religious beliefs on ethical judgment

Question 36

How can the ethical principles that guide the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' dilemma be applied to real-life ethical challenges faced by individuals and societies?

Accepted Answer

The ethical principles can help us understand and evaluate ethical challenges in different situations.

Answer

The ethical principles are only relevant to extreme survival situations.

Answer

The ethical principles are not relevant to real-life situations.

Question 37

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' dilemma, what are the potential psychological effects of cannibalism on the survivors?

Accepted Answer

Increased guilt and shame

Accepted Answer

Reduced empathy and compassion

Answer

Improved mental health for both victims and perpetrators

Question 38

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, which ethical theory emphasizes the maximization of overall happiness or well-being and might justify cannibalism as a means of survival?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Existentialism

Question 39

According to the existentialist philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, what is the primary responsibility of the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

To embrace their freedom and take ownership of their actions, creating their own moral values in the absence of external guidance.

Answer

To seek external guidance from religious or spiritual authorities to determine the right course of action.

Answer

To adhere strictly to the moral code of their society, even if it conflicts with their own beliefs.

Question 40

Which of the following ethical principles emphasizes the importance of community values and collective decision-making, suggesting that the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' should prioritize the group's well-being over individual desires?

Accepted Answer

Communitarianism

Answer

Relativism

Answer

Absolutism

Answer

Individualism

Question 41

What is a significant ethical challenge that the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' may encounter if they decide to engage in cannibalism?

Accepted Answer

The profound psychological trauma and moral burden associated with consuming human flesh.

Answer

The limited nutritional value of human flesh compared to other food sources.

Answer

The potential legal consequences if they are eventually rescued.

Answer

The increased risk of contracting infectious diseases from the deceased.

Question 42

What is a significant educational benefit of discussing the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario in an educational setting?

Accepted Answer

It promotes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the development of empathy towards those facing extreme moral dilemmas.

Answer

It guarantees that students will never encounter ethical dilemmas in real life, as they have been thoroughly prepared through this discussion.

Answer

It provides a definitive solution to the ethical dilemma, ensuring that students will make the right choices in similar situations.

Question 43

Which philosophical perspective emphasizes the influence of societal norms and customs on the morality of cannibalism?

Accepted Answer

Cultural relativism

Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Existentialism

Question 44

Which of the following is a potential consequence of engaging in cannibalism, as discussed in the text?

Accepted Answer

Psychological trauma

Answer

Improved health

Answer

Enhanced social status

Question 45

According to the text, why is cannibalism often considered taboo?

Accepted Answer

It violates established societal norms.

Answer

It poses a health risk.

Answer

It is unnatural.

Answer

It is illegal in most countries.

Question 46

According to the text, what is a key defining characteristic of moral dilemmas?

Accepted Answer

They involve conflicting moral values.

Answer

They can be easily resolved.

Answer

They are only faced by philosophers.

Answer

They always have clear-cut solutions.

Question 47

Which ethical concern is raised by the shipwrecked sailors' decision to draw straws to determine who will be sacrificed?

Accepted Answer

It undermines individual autonomy.

Answer

It ensures a fair outcome.

Answer

It is the most practical decision-making method.

Question 48

In the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, which ethical theory would prioritize the overall well-being of the group over the rights of individuals, potentially supporting cannibalism as a means of survival?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Question 49

Which of the following is NOT a potential consequence of cannibalism among the shipwrecked sailors?

Accepted Answer

Strengthened social bonds

Answer

Physical and mental health issues

Answer

Moral guilt and psychological trauma

Answer

Increased risk of infectious diseases

Question 50

The 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario exemplifies which philosophical concept that challenges the notion that moral values are absolute and universal?

Accepted Answer

Moral relativism

Answer

Aesthetics

Answer

Metaphysics

Answer

Epistemology

Question 51

Which of the following arguments against cannibalism emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of human life?

Accepted Answer

Deontological argument

Answer

Virtue ethics argument

Answer

Utilitarian argument

Answer

Existentialist argument

Question 52

In the context of the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, what is the main ethical concern raised by the concept of 'consent'?

Accepted Answer

It brings into question whether cannibalism can ever be truly consensual and morally permissible.

Answer

It relieves the sailors of any moral responsibility for their actions.

Answer

It ensures that the decision to engage in cannibalism is made fairly.

Question 53

Which ethical perspective emphasizes that the rightness or wrongness of an action depends on the specific circumstances and context, potentially justifying cannibalism in the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario?

Accepted Answer

Situationism

Answer

Relativism

Answer

Absolutism

Question 54

The 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario highlights which factor as NOT typically considered in evaluating the permissibility of actions?

Accepted Answer

The social status of those affected

Answer

The cultural context in which the action takes place

Answer

The intentions of the agent

Answer

The consequences of the action

Question 55

Which ethical principle suggests that the positive consequences of an action can sometimes justify the use of手段 in the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario?

Accepted Answer

The ends justify the means

Answer

Virtue is its own reward.

Answer

Happiness is the ultimate good.

Answer

All humans are created equal.

Question 56

In the context of the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario, what is the potential role of emotions in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Emotions can both influence and cloud our moral judgments.

Answer

Emotions are irrelevant to ethical decision-making.

Answer

Emotions always lead to irrational moral decisions.

Question 57

Which of the following lessons can be drawn from the 'Shipwrecked Sailors' scenario?

Accepted Answer

Ethical dilemmas often involve complex trade-offs and may have no clear-cut solutions.

Answer

Cannibalism is always morally wrong.

Answer

Survival should be the only ethical consideration in extreme situations.

Answer

Philosophical thought experiments are useless for addressing practical moral issues.