1.1 - Common Ethical Theories

Ethics

It broadly describes the way in which we look at and understand life, in terms of good and bad or right and wrong.

Ethics

A branch of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong conduct.

Ethos

Latin word for ethics which means "character."

Relativism

It is the theory that there is no universal moral norm of right and wrong.

Relativism

Different individuals or groups of people can have completely opposite views of a moral problem, and both can be right.

Subjective Relativism

Holds that each person decides right and wrong for themselves.

Subjective Relativism

An example of this is the way chef cooks food.

Subjective Relativism

People are good at rationalizing their bad behavior.

Cultural Relativism

It is the ethical theory that the meaning of right and wrong rests with a society's actual moral guidelines.

Cultural Relativism

Ethics is based from the culture of the environment.

Cultural Relativism

An example of this are white lies for the benefit of family and friends.

Divine Command Theory

It is based on the idea that good actions are those aligned with the will of God and bad actions are those contrary to the will of God.

Ethical Egoism

It is the philosophy that each person should focus exclusively on his or her self interest.

Ethical Egoism

A person will always act ethically for certain benefits.

Ethical Egoism

The like that you don't like.

Consequentialism

The consequence of an action that justifies the moral acceptability of the means taken to reach that end.

Consequentialism

The end will justify the means.

Deontology

Also known as Kantianism

Deontology

It is an obligation-based theory whose chief author was Immanuel Kant who lived in the 18th century

Deontology

Morality is based on pure reason. It is based from duty.

Congress

It has the duty to make and/or repeal laws.

Executive Branch

It has the duty to execute and implement laws.

Judiciary

It has the sole power to interpret the law.

Section 26

The state shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.