Final answer:
Fundamental moral duties include fidelity, reparation, gratitude, promoting aggregate good, and non-maleficence. Both consequences and intention are important for determining ethicality, depending on the ethical framework. Moral judgments can be true, but they can also be subjective. The good life is subjective and can vary based on individual beliefs and values.
Step-by-step explanation:
Our fundamental moral duties can be identified through five prima facie duties proposed by Ross: (1) fidelity, which relates to keeping promises and being truthful; (2) reparation, which involves making up for wrongs done to others; (3) gratitude, which includes expressing gratitude when others benefit us and reciprocating when possible; (4) promoting the maximum aggregate good, which means increasing overall good in the world; and (5) non-maleficence, which means not harming others (Ross 1930, 21, 25; Ross 1939, 65, 75, 76; Skelton 2012).
In determining if an act is ethical, both the consequences and intention are important. Consequentialists focus on the outcome or consequences of an action, believing that it is morally right if it produces the greatest good. Deontologists, on the other hand, prioritize following duties or rules to determine the rightness of an action, regardless of the consequences. Ultimately, it depends on the ethical framework one subscribes to (Ross 1939, 189).
Moral judgments can be considered true if they align with ethical principles and norms. However, moral judgments can also be subjective, as different individuals or cultures may have different moral beliefs. It is important to engage in moral deliberation and consider diverse perspectives when analyzing the morality of an action (INTRODUCTION).
The concept of the good life is subjective and can vary depending on individual beliefs and values. Philosophers have explored different foundations for moral values, including God, religious faith, nature, society, politics, law, and rationality. Ultimately, the good life is typically associated with a sense of fulfillment and happiness, but it may be defined differently by different individuals (INTRODUCTION).