Exploring Sexual Morality in Ethics - Group 4 PDF

Exploring SEXUAL MORALITY in Ethics GROUP 4  SEXUAL MORALITY Sexual morality is a branch of ethics that explores the moral implications of human sexuality. It focuses on right and wrong aspects of sexual behavior, considering factors like consent, harm prevention, and emotional c...

Exploring SEXUAL MORALITY in Ethics GROUP 4  SEXUAL MORALITY Sexual morality is a branch of ethics that explores the moral implications of human sexuality. It focuses on right and wrong aspects of sexual behavior, considering factors like consent, harm prevention, and emotional connection. This field examines how societal norms and cultural values influence our understanding of what constitutes morally acceptable sexual conduct.  EXPLORING DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES ON MORALITY AND SEX Natural Law Theory's Perspective on Sex Natural Law Theory (NLT) suggests that the goodness of an action is determined by its fulfillment of its natural function. Natural Law argues that the natural function of sexual faculties is procreation, making any act that hinders this function morally wrong. According to natural law theory, acts like premarital sex, masturbation, contraception, and homosexuality are considered morally unacceptable. NLT emphasizes that the morality of sexual acts is objective and independent of individual desires or cultural norms. The chapter clarifies that NLT does not condemn all actions that frustrate natural ends, but only those involving human acts.  EXPLORING DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES ON MORALITY AND SEX Kant's Deontological Approach to Sex Immanuel Kant's ethics emphasizes treating humanity as an end, never merely as a means. Kant views sexual desire as a threat to treating others as whole persons, potentially objectifying them. He argues that sex is only morally permissible within a heterosexual, lifelong, and monogamous marriage. Kant believes that marriage involves a reciprocal agreement, where both partners surrender themselves to each other. This reciprocity, he argues, prevents objectification and ensures mutual respect in sexual relationships. Kant's view on marriage is often seen as restrictive and outdated.  EXPLORING DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES ON MORALITY AND SEX Utilitarianism's Perspective on Sexual Morality Utilitarianism focuses on maximizing overall happiness and minimizing suffering. It does not inherently condemn any specific sexual act, but judges them based on their consequences. Utilitarianism considers the pleasure and pain experienced by all parties involved in a sexual act. Utilitarianism acknowledges that rape and pedophilia are morally wrong due to their negative consequences. It does not necessarily advocate for promiscuity, as other actions might lead to greater happiness.Utilitarianism considers the impact of sexual acts on relationships, mental health, and well-being.  EXPLORING DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES ON MORALITY AND SEX Virtue Theory in Sexual Ethics Virtue Theory focuses on developing virtuous character traits and habits, emphasizing moderation and temperance in all aspects of life, including sexuality. It emphasizes the importance of engaging in sexual activity at the right time, with the right people, and for the right reasons. Virtue Theory condemns acts like rape and pedophilia because they violate others' sexual autonomy. Adultery might be considered wrong if it reflects a lack of temperance and commitment to marriage vows. The chapter explores the concept of the "Golden Mean" in relation to sexual activity, finding a balance between excess and deficiency. It suggests that intemperance with regard to sex can have negative consequences for health, relationships, and other values. The chapter acknowledges that the Virtue Theory approach to sexual ethics is less prescriptive than other theories. It encourages readers to consider the role of virtues like temperance and courage in navigating sexual relationships.  LGBTQ+ CRIMINALIZATION TIMELINE In 1290, English common law considered sodomy an offense against God, punishable by burial alive or burning. The Buggery Act of 1533, passed during Henry VIII's reign, made sodomy a capital offense, laying the groundwork for sodomy laws exported under British colonial rule. In 1791, France decriminalized same-sex sexual activity, a precedent followed by the Napoleonic Code, which influenced legal systems across the globe. The 1828 Offences Against the Person Act in England narrowed the offense of sodomy to male same-sex activity, still punishable by death. The Indian Penal Code of 1860, drafted to "inculcate European morality," introduced Section 377, criminalizing "unnatural offenses," and was subsequently adopted in other parts of the British Empire. The 1967 Sexual Offences Act in England decriminalized private, consensual same-sex acts between persons aged 21 and over, but full legal equality for LGBT people in the UK was not achieved until the 2000s. The European Court of Human Rights played a significant role in decriminalization, starting with the landmark Dudgeon v. United Kingdom case in 1981, which found that Northern Ireland's laws criminalizing same-sex acts violated the right to privacy. The Council of Europe adopted decriminalization as a condition for membership, leading to decriminalization in many Eastern European and former Soviet bloc countries. The 2010s saw an increasing amount of litigation across the world, resulting in decriminalization in several countries, including India, Botswana, and Trinidad & Tobago. SEXUAL AUTONOMY AND EMBRACING SEXUAL CONSENT DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY Sexual autonomy refers to an individual's Sexual orientation and gender identity are right to make choices about their own sexual diverse and should be respected. experiences. Ethical considerations must be inclusive and Consent is essential for any morally address the needs and experiences of all acceptable sexual activity. individuals. It involves freely and knowingly agreeing to Promoting equality and justice in sexual engage in a particular sexual act. matters is crucial for a just and equitable society. REFERENCES Aristotle, The Nicomachean Ethics (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1908) ‘Goldman, A. H., ‘Plain Sex’, Philosophy & Public Affairs, 6.3 (1977): 267–87 Halwani, R., The Philosophy of Love, Sex and Marriage: An Introduction (Oxford: Routledge, 2010) Mill, J. S., ‘Utilitarianism’, in Utilitarianism and Other Essays, ed. by Alan Ryan (London: Penguin Books, 2004) Bentham, Jeremy, ‘An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation’, in Utilitarianism and Other Essays, ed. by Alan Ryan (London: Penguin Books, 2004) Soble, Alan, The Philosophy of Sex: Contemporary Readings (Plymouth: Rowman & Littlefield, 2002) The Philosophy of Sex and Love: An Introduction (Paragon House, 1998). THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.