4.3 - VALUES, MORALS AND ETHICS

How do we develop a sense of what is right and wrong?

From the moral and ethical values of our society (varies between countries). Society’s values usually come from beliefs, attitudes and values of religious institutions.

Do different countries have different laws? Give example if so.

Yes, different countries have different laws. e.g. in Australia has strict anti-smoking legislation. In Singapore, you can get a $150 fine for not flushing a public toilet.

What impact did the introduction of British law have upon traditional Aboriginal law?

The settlers did not recognise the pre-existing Aboriginal law when they arrived and as a consequence the Aboriginal people were expected to follow English law. This created many misunderstandings and problems.

Examples of other ancient civilisations laws.

Christians - Ten Commandments

Muslims - Five Pillars of Islam

Babylon - Code of Hammurabi

(society’s legal system and religion are often interlinked)