Sources of Authority

Sources of Authority - Ethics

External Authority

External Authority

Guidance derived from societal norms, legal systems, religious doctrines, or cultural traditions that influences behavior through external rules and expectations.

Law (State)

A system of rules established by a governing authority to regulate behavior within a society, highlighting that not all legal actions are moral and vice versa.

Religion (Faith)

A belief system that can influence moral values and ethical behavior, often varying across different cultures.

Cultural Relativism

The idea that moral practices and beliefs are viewed differently across cultures, asserting that no culture's moral code is superior to another.

James Rachels

A philosopher who defined cultural relativism and argued against it, believing in the possibility of moral progress and the need to question cultural moral beliefs.

Internal Authority

Guidance that comes from an individual's personal values, conscience, and sense of morality, influencing behavior based on internal convictions.

Subjectivism

The philosophical position that moral values are determined by the individual, making them the sole judge of what is right or wrong.

Psychological Egoism

The theory that human actions are inherently motivated by self-interest, suggesting that all behavior is ultimately selfish.

Ethical Egoism

The ethical stance that individuals should prioritize their own interests above all, acting in ways that benefit themselves, even if it also helps others.