Normative theories of ethics

ethical theories

Theories that attempt to answer the central ethical question of how we are to live together

normative ethical theories

Theories proposing principles to distinguish right from wrong, divided into consequentialist, non-consequentialist, and virtue ethics, which emphasizes character.

Ethical dilemma

A situation where a moral agent faces competing interests and options that are difficult to resolve.

Moral agent

One who makes a decision that has ethical dimensions

Ethical dimension

an aspect that is likely to affect stakeholders positively and/or negatively

Business professional

Individuals pursuing higher education typically possess specialized knowledge that society relies upon.

Social contract

An implicit (unwritten) understanding that professionals should work in the public interest owing to the reliance and trust that society places on them.

Virtue theory

A term for theories emphasizing character and virtue in moral philosophy over duty or outcome.

Ethic of care

A virtue theory emphasizing traditionally ‘feminine’ virtues like caring and selflessness.

Deontology (non-consequentialism)

an ethical approach based on duty and principles, not consequences.

Deontological (non-consequentialist) theories

theories that contend that right and wrong are determined by more than just the likely consequences of an action.

Teleology (consequentialism)

an ethical approach based on the consequences of an action or decision.

Teleological (consequentialist) theories

Theories that judge actions as right or wrong based on their outcomes: good consequences mean the action is right, bad consequences mean it is wrong.

Eudaimonia

a state of happiness, contentment or flourishing

Phronesis

Practical wisdom.

Ethical mindset

Reflection on situations through personal beliefs and values like honesty, optimism, and professionalism.

Categorical imperative

a moral obligation or command that is unconditionally and universally binding

Maxim

Immanuel Kant’s concept of the subjective principle of an action is the principle (or rule) that people formulate in determining their conduct.

Prima facie obligation

An obligation that can be overridden by a greater obligation.

Egoism

A doctrine advocating that an action is morally right if it promotes an agent's long-term self-interest.

Hedonism

A doctrine that views pleasure as the ultimate good

Self-actualisation

Fully realizing one's potential.

Psychological egoism

The doctrine that all actions are selfishly motivated, making unselfish actions impossible.

Utilitarianism

An ethical theory that prioritizes actions yielding the greatest good for the greatest number.

Rule utilitarianism

A branch of utilitarianism that judges morality based on established rules and principles rather than on a case-by-case assessment.

Act utilitarianism

The branch of utilitarianism that assesses the morality of specific acts rather than following rules or principles.

Moral rights

Rights derived from specific relationships, roles, or circumstances.

Human rights

Universal and equal rights inherent to all individuals, not dependent on roles or circumstances, and cannot be transferred or relinquished.

Negative rights

Rights reflecting vital human interests in freedom from outside interference.

Positive rights

Rights that include access to education, medical care, equal work opportunities, and comparable pay.