Module 1 Moral Reasoning and Theories

Ethics

the study of morality

Bioethics

a field of study that examines ethical issues and controversies that arise in healthcare, biomedical research, and related fields

Morality

the values, rules, or principles that guide our decisions about right and wrong—especially when those decisions affect other people.

Moral Relativism

morality is relative (ie culture or historical period) and that no standpoint is uniquely privilege over all others

Moral Absolutism

there is always one right answer to any ethical question

Moral Reasoning

The deliberative process of careful reflection on what “one ought to do”

4 parts of Moral Reasoning

-You are a competent moral reasoner

-to do the right thing

-discussion driven

-clarity of thought, communication, interpersonal justification

Moral Theories

Articulating the meaning of important moral concepts and connect them to moral theories

Moral Dilemmas

Reproducing the vignettes of classic thought experiments in moral philosophy and use them as heuristics to illustrate moral concepts and discuss new moral dilemmas

Normative ethics

the branch of philosophy from which bioethics has emerged, asks “what are good reasons for making moral judgments?”

Consequentialism

An ethical theory that judges whether or not something is right by its outcome

Deontology

An ethical theory that uses universal rules to distinguish right from wrong.

Utilitarisnism

the most ethical choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number

Virtue Ethics

guide to living life vs specific rules for resolving ethical dilemmas

Natural Law Theory

we are born with the tools we need to know what is good and destroying life (abortion) is morally wrong

Contractarianism

Morality is created by a social
contract that people accept because
everyone is looking out for their (close
family/friends) best interests.
Assumes individuals can benefit from
cooperating

Ethic of Care

focuses on cultural and emotional sensitivity, supportive communication, and proactive measures to ensure accessibility for vulnerable populations