Introduction to Ethics [1]

Why Study Ethics?

• Ethics or moral philosophy is a branch of philosophy that focuses on how to understand and live a good life, including understanding right and wrong behavior.
• Aristotle believed educating the mind without educating the heart is not true education.

Traditional and Cultural Ethics

• People often believe their traditions are unquestionable and serve as a basis for how they act.
• Cultures shape how people understand the world and behave.
• Cultures are systems of codes that define what a good life means and how to behave.
• Traditions are a part of a culture.
• The “good” is usually defined by a dominant system or group. This "good" is often what helps humans survive and flourish.
• Cooperation is valued over conflict because it leads to survival.
• People are also concerned with ethical acts that lead to human flourishing.

Ethics and Terminology

• The term "ethics" comes from the Greek word "ethos," meaning "custom" or "habitual way of doing things."
• The Latin word "mos" or "moris" is equivalent to "ethos" and means "custom" or "tradition."
• Words like "gawi" and "gawa" in Filipino highlight the difference between thoughtless and instinctive actions versus purposeful actions with intent.

Moral vs. Non-Moral Standards

• Moral standards deal with matters that seriously affect humans, animals, and the environment.
• Moral standards are not established by authority figures and are based on principles of right and wrong.
• Moral standards are overriding, meaning they take precedence over personal interests.
• Moral standards are associated with emotions like guilt and shame, and vocabulary like "right," "wrong," "good," and "bad."
• Non-moral standards are not based on right or wrong, but rather on personal preferences or a matter of taste.
• Non-moral standards may be influenced by societal constructs.

Moral Reasoning

• Moral reasoning is the process of deciding what to do based on principles of right and wrong.
• Tacit reasoning involves thinking without consciously trying to reach an answer.
• Emotions and feelings can be influential in moral reasoning, however, reasoning and logic set the course for making ethical decisions.
• Situations and circumstances often influence moral reasoning.
• Prejudice can cloud moral reasoning, so impartiality is important.

Seven-Step Moral Reasoning Model

• The seven-step model offers guidance for making ethical decisions.
• Step 1: Stop and Think: Reflect on the situation before acting.
• Step 2: Clarify Goals: Identify short-term and long-term goals.
• Step 3: Determine Facts: Gather all relevant information to make an informed decision.
• Step 4: Develop Options: Consider alternative courses of action.
• Step 5: Consider Consequences: Weigh the potential consequences of each option, both positive and negative.
• Step 6: Choose and Make Decision: Make a choice and take action.
• Step 7: Monitor and Modify: Review the outcome of your decisions and adjust if necessary.

Conclusion

• Navigating ethical dilemmas is challenging, especially given diverse cultures and values.
• Moral reasoning will be met with challenges and criticisms.
• When faced with ethical issues, it's reasonable to act based on rational thinking, past experiences, and personal values.
• Making decisions based on individual autonomy is essential.
• Strive to uphold honesty, integrity, and moral truth in daily choices.

Explore the fundamental concepts of ethics, including traditional and cultural influences on moral philosophy. This quiz delves into how various cultures shape perspectives on right and wrong behavior, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and human flourishing in ethical considerations.