Ethics Theories: Utilitarianism & Deontology

Utilitarianism

• 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.

Moral Dispositions - Lesson 14: Natural Law

• 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.

Moral Dispositions - Lesson 15: Deontology

• 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.

Moral Dispositions - Lesson 16: Virtue Ethics

• 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.

Moral Dispositions - Lesson 17: Justice and Fairness

• 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).