Week 11: Reason and Impartiality as Minimum Requirements for Morality

It is the capacity for consciously making sense of things, establishing and verifying facts, applying logic, and changing or justifying practices, institutions, and beliefs based on new or existing information (Komprodis, 2000).

reason

_, or an aspect of it, is sometimes referred to as rationality. It is also associated with thinking, cognition, and intellect. It is a declaration to explain or justify an action, decision, or conviction.

reason

It refers to being fair, unbiased, and neutral in one’s judgments or actions. An impartial person does not favor one side or party over another and strives to treat all individuals or groups fairly without showing favoritism or prejudice.

impartiality

Impartiality involves making decisions or forming opinions based on __ rather than personal feelings, opinions, or external influences.

objective criteria

It refers to personal or cultural values, beliefs, and principles about right and wrong behavior. It often involves an individual’s internal compass for making decisions based on their understanding of what is morally acceptable or unacceptable. Moreover, it can be more flexible and subject to personal interpretation since individuals or cultures may have diverse moral perspectives.

morality

_ is often rooted in personal or cultural values, religious beliefs, or individual conscience

morality

Some may think that ethics and morality may be used interchangeably; however, they mean __.

different things

_ may be derived from various sources, including philosophical reasoning, social contracts, legal frameworks, and professional standards. It often involves a more reasoned and systematic approach to moral principles.

ethics

_ is often applied in different professions, organizations, institutes such as business, medicine, law, or academia. Ethical codes and guidelines are developed to regulate behavior within these domains

ethics

ethics are based on societal standards, while morals refer to __

personal beliefs

_ and _ refer to a mental activity following the basic principle of consistency, the lack of contradiction between one idea and another.

Reason and impartiality

• requires coherence in how different thoughts and ideas fit together

• extends to the alignment of beliefs with actions

• contributes to reliable decision-making

• implies stability in one’s values

How can we say that consistency is observed in line with reason and impartiality?

Consistency involves _, _, and _ to create a cohesive and reliable framework for thinking and decision-making.

aligning ideas, beliefs, and judgments

__ must be backed up by good reason and impartiality

Moral judgments

Good reason requires to provide sound and logical reasons to support moral judgments.

It involves:

• thoughtful consideration,

• critical thinking, and

• the ability to articulate the underlying principles or values that inform one’s ethical stance

Reason avoids __, appeal to pity, since appearing miserable does not improve an argument

Example:

“Yes, I exceeded the speed limit, but I was rushing to the hospital because my wife was in labor. I’m sure you can understand and show some mercy.” The situation is indeed sympathetic; it doesn’t change the fact that the person broke the law.

ad misericordiam (to compassion or pity)

Reason does not resort to __ appeal to authority, one’s power and influence cannot make a wrong right.

Example:

“This diet plan is the best because it was recommended by Dr. Dela Cruz, a renowned nutrition expert.” It doesn’t provide specific reasons or evidence regarding the effectiveness or scientific basis of the diet plan.

ad verecundiam (appeal to modesty)_

How do reason and impartiality influence morality?

• _ allows individuals to evaluate situations objectively, considering relevant facts and evidence without unnecessary influence from emotions or personal biases. It helps in making decisions based on logical analysis rather than subjective preferences.

• _ helps in developing consistent moral principles. By relying on rational thinking, individuals can avoid emotionally driven judgments, fostering a more stable and coherent moral framework.

• _ allow individuals to articulate and justify their moral beliefs and actions. Providing reasoned explanations for moral choices enhances accountability and encourages thoughtful reflection.

reason

How do reason and impartiality influence morality?

• It ensures that individuals or groups are treated fairly and without bias. It prevents favoritism and discrimination, promoting an equal approach to moral decision-making.

• It helps in finding resolutions that consider the interests of all parties involved. It contributes to a more harmonious and cooperative social environment

impartiality