General Ethics Overview

Definition of Ethics

• Ethics involves the critical examination of morality and how individuals should act and the reasons behind such actions.
• Moral philosophy is the branch of philosophy focused on questions of right and wrong and what constitutes a good life.

Major Ethical Theories

• Utilitarianism

  • Based on the greatest happiness principle; actions are deemed right if they contribute to the greatest good for the greatest number.
  • Notable proponents include Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

• Deontology

  • Emphasizes duty-based ethics; actions are morally right by adherence to rules, irrespective of the consequences.
  • Immanuel Kant is a prominent figure in this theory.

• Virtue Ethics

  • Focuses on the moral character of the individual rather than specific actions, highlighting virtues such as courage, temperance, and wisdom.
  • Aristotle is a key philosopher associated with virtue ethics.

• Social Contract Theory

  • Argues that morality and political obligations arise from agreements among individuals.
  • Key figures include Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

• Ethical Relativism

  • Suggests that morality is culture-dependent; no absolute moral truths exist across different societies or individuals.

• Ethical Egoism

  • Advocates that individuals should prioritize acting in their own self-interest.

Ethical Principles

• Autonomy

  • Emphasizes respect for the decision-making capabilities of individuals.

• Nonmaleficence

  • The imperative to avoid causing harm intentionally to others.

• Beneficence

  • The duty to assist others and promote their welfare.

• Justice

  • Highlights fairness and equitable treatment of all individuals.

• Fidelity

  • The responsibility to keep promises and maintain trustworthiness.

Applied Ethics

• Bioethics

  • Concerns ethical issues in medical practices, research, and technological advancements.

• Environmental Ethics

  • Explores the moral relationship between humans and the natural environment.

• Business Ethics

  • Addresses ethical conduct in commerce and corporate responsibilities.

• Professional Ethics

  • Involves codes of conduct specific to particular professions.

Moral Dilemmas and Decision Making

• Moral Dilemma

  • Arises when an individual must choose between conflicting moral principles.

• Decision-Making Models

  • Consequentialism: Evaluates the outcomes of actions to determine morality.
  • Deontological Reasoning: Focuses on following duties and obligations.
  • Virtue-Based Approach: Prioritizes moral character and virtues in decision-making.

Critical Issues in Ethics

• Human Rights

  • Discusses the basic rights and freedoms entitled to all humans.

• Justice and Equality

  • Addresses disparities in treatment and the need for fairness.

• Freedom vs. Determinism

  • Examines the debate about whether human actions are freely chosen or determined by prior causes.

• Moral Responsibility

  • Covers accountability for actions, particularly regarding free will.

Contemporary Ethical Issues

• Technology and Ethics

  • Explores implications of artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cyber ethics in modern society.

• Environmental Ethics

  • Discusses contemporary challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and animal rights.

• Medical Ethics

  • Addresses ethical concerns arising from euthanasia, cloning, genetic engineering, and organ transplantation.