Topic3

Ethics: Theories and Tensions

  • This topic explores teleological theories of ethics.

Definition

  • Teleological Ethics: An ethical theory where the rightness or wrongness of an act is determined by its consequences or outcomes.

Consequentialist Ethics

  • Consequentialism: The morality of an action depends on the outcome or results.

  • Examples of teleological theories include Utilitarianism: An action is right if it maximizes value for the greatest number of people.

  • Examples:

    • Suspensions are considered good as they allow the majority of students to learn effectively by removing disruptive individuals.

    • Being quiet in class benefits the majority by providing an environment where most can listen, thus limiting the freedom of a few for the greater good (e.g., incarcerating criminals).

Moral Relativism

  • An ethical theory from the 20th century.

  • Claims that an act is morally right if it is approved by society.

  • Key idea: "Different things are right for different societies and historical periods."

  • Discussion Points: Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?

Critiques of Moral Relativism

  1. Majority View Legitimacy:

    • Relativism states the majority view is correct, but improvements often arise from opposition to prevailing ethical views (e.g., the abolition of slavery).

  2. Cultural Diversity:

    • Moral relativism struggles to address moral differences in culturally diverse societies (e.g., Australia, US, Canada).

  3. Logical Consistency:

    • Moral relativism is considered inconsistent as it cannot claim absolute truth while denying universal moral truths.

Ethical Theory: Relativism

  • Promotes values of tolerance in society.

Key Terminology and Definitions

  • Descriptive Cultural Relativism: Different societies have different moral codes.

  • Negative claim: No universal truths in ethics; all moral truths are relative.

  • Positive claim: Societal moral codes define rightness; an action is right within a society if the moral code states so.

  • Tolerance Principle: Avoid arrogance by judging conduct outside one's own society. Tolerance toward other cultural practices is essential.

  • Unspecial Principle: The moral code of one's society does not hold special status; it's one of many.

The Teaching Profession

  • Influenced by three elements:

    • Teachers' beliefs about children.

    • Teachers' personal ethics (moral philosophies).

    • Standards set by regulatory bodies.

Topics Explored

  • Definition of ethics.

  • Professional documentation examples, such as Professional Boundaries and Standards of Practice from regulatory bodies, showcasing ethics in practice.

  • History and development of normative ethics.

  • Key ethical theories explored: consequentialist, deontologist, and relativist.