Ethics Theories: Utilitarianism & Deontology

Study Notes

A consequentialist ethical theory, judging actions based on their outcomes, not intentions.
Focuses on maximizing overall happiness or utility for the greatest number of people.
Bentham's approach is quantitative, measuring pleasure and pain in terms of quantity.
Mill's approach is qualitative, considering the quality or type of pleasure.

Natural law is an ethical theory asserting inherent moral rules discoverable by reason, derived from nature or God.
Aquinas, a prominent natural law theorist, believed that humans, uniquely using reason, are guided by an eternal, divine plan.
The eternal law acts as the basis for natural, human, and divine laws.
Natural law is universal, applies to all humans, and is unchanging.
Divine law (Bible) provides guidance for achieving eternal happiness.

Deontology focuses on the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions, irrespective of consequences.
Immanuel Kant, a key figure, emphasized the importance of rational will and duty.
The categorical imperative is a key deontological principle, guiding actions based on universalizability.
Actions should be performed as if they were universal moral laws, applicable to everyone.
Agents are autonomous, making choices according to principles.
Duty and agency are central to deontology.

Focuses on character development and the formation of virtuous traits.
Aristotle, a major proponent, believed that virtue lies in the "golden mean" – a balance between extremes (vice).
Moral virtue is achieved through habit and practice.
Practical wisdom is crucial for identifying the right actions in diverse situations.

Justice and fairness are often used interchangeably but with subtleties.
Justice involves acting in accordance with law or some established norm, while fairness emphasizes impartial judgement.
Justice is typically thought of as a higher standard than law.
Types of justice: social, distributive, environmental, restorative, retributive, procedural.
Fairness involves applying consistent and equitable judgement, considering the merits and circumstances directly.
Principles of fairness: treating people equitably, making decisions based on appropriate criteria, correcting mistakes.
Principles of justice: adherence to laws, proportionality of punishment (deserts), equitable treatment for all (equality).