5. According to Hursthouse, virtue theory "transforms the discussion of abortion by dismissing the two familiar dominating considerations as, in a way, fundamentally irrelevant" (p. 415). What is the virtue theory? How does it differ from other approaches to ethics, such as utilitarianism or Kantianism?
What "two familiar dominating considerations" is she referring to here, and how does the virtue theory render them "fundamentally irrelevant"? Do you agree that they are irrelevant? Why or why not?
6. Is a fetus a human being with a right to life? From the moment of conception? Discuss arguments for and against. Give an objection to each argument.
7. Clearly state the traditional conservative argument against abortion, as discussed by either Warren or Thomson. Which premise does Judy Thomson reject, and why? (You should explain the famous
example she relies on.) On what grounds does Thomson argue that a pregnant woman has a right to have an abortion? Is it ever wrong on her view to have an abortion? Why or why not? Finally, give
one objection to her position on abortion.
8. Clearly explain the distinction between perfect (or 'narrow') and imperfect ('wide') duty, and illustrate each with an example. How does this distinction arise from Kant's first formulation of the categorical imperative (the formula of universal law)? How does it relate to the second formulation (the formula
of the end in itself)?
9. Thomas Hobbes describes a "state of nature", in which people live without being ruled over by any governmental authority. (a) Describe Hobbes' picture of the state of nature. What role does the state of nature play in his theory of the state? (What is it used to justify?) (b) Clerly explain the idea of a prisoner's dilemma. In what regard is Hobbes' state of nature akin to a prisoner's dilemma? (c) Describe Locke's picture of the state of nature. How does it differ from Hobbes's? How is it similar?
(d) Why according to Locke do people have by nature a right to acquire and hold private property?