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An ethical theory that posits that moral norms arise from an agreement. T.M. Scanlon is a modern proponent, differentiating between this and contractarianism (Hobbesian tradition).

A part of philosophy that considers the moral relationship of human beings to the environment and its non-human contents. Aldo Leopold's land ethic is an example.

Concerns the nature of a socially just allocation of goods in a society. John Rawls' Theory of Justice introduces principles to guide such allocation, including the famous 'veil of ignorance' concept.

The view that there are objective moral truths and that humans have an innate ability to perceive them. G.E. Moore and Henri Bergson are associated with this approach.

Centers on the character of the individual rather than on the consequences of specific actions or rules. Important figures include Aristotle and Alasdair MacIntyre.

A thought experiment in ethics that presents a dilemma where one must choose between two unfavourable outcomes, such as choosing to divert a runaway trolley to save five people at the expense of one person's life.

The ethical stance that prescribes individuals to act in accordance with their own self-interest. Ayn Rand is one of the most notable proponents of this view.

An ethical theory that judges whether or not something is right by what its consequences are. Utilitarianism is a form of consequentialism.

A standard example of a game analyzed in game theory that shows why two completely rational individuals might not cooperate, even if it appears that it is in their best interest to do so.

The view that moral judgments are true or false only relative to some particular standpoint and that no standpoint is uniquely privileged over all others.

The meta-ethical view that moral values are whatever is commanded by a divine being, and morality is ultimately based on the edicts of God.

The view that moral judgement can be guided by and primarily relies on the consideration of specific cases, eschewing the need for moral principles.

A normative ethical theory that ascribes rightness of actions based on their outcomes, specifically aiming for the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Key thinkers include Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

An ethical theory that suggests actions are right or wrong according to a set of rules, regardless of the consequences. Immanuel Kant is the key thinker behind this theory.

A central concept in Aristotelian ethics, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing', and considered the highest good for humans.

A deontological principle introduced by Immanuel Kant that one should only act according to the maxim that one would wish all other rational people to follow, as if it were a universal law.

A theory emphasizing the moral importance of interpersonal relationships and empathy. Nel Noddings is a prominent advocate of this approach.

A school of thought that argues that pleasure and happiness are the primary or most important intrinsic goods and the aim of human life. Epicurus is a well-known ancient proponent.

A theory asserting that valid moral principles are those that are derived from the nature of humans and the nature of the world. Thomas Aquinas is a central figure in this ethical framework.