Introduction to Ethical Theories

Introduction to Ethical Theories

• A theory is a set of assumptions, propositions, or accepted facts that attempts to explain cause-and-effect relationships in observed phenomena.
• Ethical theories are valuable tools for understanding ethical issues and form the basis for ethical decision-making.

Types of Ethical Theories

• Ethical theories can be categorized into two main types:
  • Teleological theories
  • Deontological theories

Teleological Theories

• Teleology is derived from the Greek word "telos," meaning end.
• Teleological theories judge the rightness of an action based on the amount of good consequences it produces.
• Actions are justified by the virtue of the end they achieve.

Utilitarianism

• Classical utilitarianism posits that an action is right if it produces the greatest balance of pleasure over pain for everyone.
• The four branches of utilitarianism are consequentialism, hedonism, maximalism, and universalism.

Consequentialism

• The rightness of actions is determined solely by their consequences.
• The results of actions need to be measured to assess the good and bad consequences for different individuals.

Hedonism

• Pleasure and the absence of pain are seen as the ultimate good.
• Good and bad consequences are essentially pleasure and pain.

Maximalism

• A right action is one that produces the greatest amount of good consequences while taking into account possible bad consequences.
• An action can be considered right even if it produces pain, as long as the pleasure produced outweighs the pain.

Universalism

• The consequences to be considered are those of everyone, not just individuals or specific groups.
• Personal interests should be considered, but not at the expense of others.
• The interests of all parties involved in an action should be taken into account.

Deontological Theories

• Deontology is derived from the Greek word "deon," meaning duty.
• Deontological theories argue that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences.
• Deontological theories emphasize duties and rules.
• Lying is wrong, regardless of consequences.
• Deontological theories emphasize rights, human dignity, and respect for others.

Kantian Ethics

• Immanuel Kant aimed to reinstate reason in moral thought.
• Kant's theory highlights that some actions are right or wrong based on rational principles, not just from their consequences.
• Kant's theory comprises two main divisions:
  • Universalizability
  • Respect for persons

The Principle of Universalizability

• An action is deemed right or wrong based on whether it can be universally applied.
• If everyone did that action, would the result be disastrous?

Respect for Persons

• Act in a way that treats humanity as an end, never merely as a means.
• Recognize the inherent dignity and autonomy of all human beings.
• Respecting others includes acknowledging their capacity for free action.

Aristotle's Virtue Ethics

• Virtue ethics focus on character rather than actions.
• Aristotle believed ethics are about developing virtuous traits.
• Aristotle's objective is to live a life of success and fulfillment.
• People who are virtuous make the right choices and live a good life.

What is a Virtue?

• A virtue is a character trait that leads to good actions.
• A virtue is something we actually practice.
• Examples like honesty, integrity, and courage are virtues.

Nature and Value of Justice

• Aristotle identified various forms of justice:
  • Distributive justice (distribution of benefits and burdens)
  • Compensatory justice (compensating for wrongs)
  • Retributive justice (punishment of wrongdoers)