The Exam

 French students vying for university entrance had to write the philosophy

exam, today, and - apparently - Chatgpt didn't do that well. Here is what a quick

run through topic one got from Bing/Chat.

Some arguments put forward by philosophers on the question of whether humans should put moral behavior towards others first, or whether other considerations might come first, are:

- Kant's categorical imperative: This is a principle of practical rationality that states that one should act only according to maxims that one can will to be universal laws. Kant argued that this principle is the supreme principle of morality and that it implies a duty to respect the dignity and autonomy of all rational beings.

- Mill's utilitarianism: This is a moral theory that holds that the right action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number of people. Mill argued that this theory is based on a natural sentiment of benevolence and that it respects the equality and liberty of all human beings.

- Hume's sentimentalism: This is a moral view that claims that moral judgments are based on feelings or sentiments rather than reason. Hume argued that human nature is endowed with a natural sympathy for others and that this sympathy is the source of moral approval and disapproval.

- Hobbes's social contract: This is a political theory that explains the origin and justification of civil society and government. Hobbes argued that human beings are naturally selfish and violent and that they need a strong sovereign to enforce laws and maintain peace. He claimed that morality is based on a rational agreement among individuals to obey the sovereign in exchange for security.

- Aristotle's virtue ethics: This is a moral theory that focuses on the development of good character and habits rather than on rules or consequences. Aristotle argued that human beings have a natural function or purpose (telos) and that morality consists in fulfilling this function by cultivating virtues such as courage, justice, wisdom, and friendship.

Sounds to me like Aristotle nailed it. Good work, Bing!