Moral Philosophical Approach

• Observes that the primary purpose of literature is to:

  • Teach morality.

  • Explore philosophical issues.

• Notable thinker: Samuel Johnson.

Moral Principles

• Discussion of foundational ethical rules.

Divine Command Theory

• Describes a guiding moral principle:

  • States something is considered right or wrong based on God's commands.

  • Adherence is necessary because it is rooted in divine authority.

Reflection on Divine Command Theory

• Thinker perspective:

  • "I am a strong believer in my God; I am changing the commandments: you must now do the opposite."

Immanuel Kant's Philosophy

• Critique of the relationship between religion and morality:

  • Believes they are incompatible.

  • Asserts that moral understanding should stem from reason rather than religious belief.

Categorical Imperative

• Formulation 1: The Formula of Universal Law

  • Defined as:

    • An objective, rationally necessary, and unconditional principle.

    Must be followed regardless of personal wants.

• Emphasizes that actions hold moral worth only when done out of a sense of duty, regardless of personal inclination.

Categorical Imperative - Formula of Humanity

• Formulation 2:

  • "Act in such a way that you treat humanity as an end, and never as a mere means."

Utilitarianism

• Definition:

  • Ethical theory that assesses actions based on their outcomes.

  • Focuses on achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

Ethical Dilemma

• Example reflects on:

  • Batman's moral standing regarding the Joker.

    • Is he morally upright for not killing him or morally compromised for allowing him to continue his reign of terror?
      This question reflects a classic ethical dilemma, particularly in the context of Utilitarianism. From a utilitarian perspective, one might argue that killing the Joker could prevent future harm and suffering, thus promoting the greatest happiness for the greatest number. However, from a Kantian perspective, Batman's refusal to kill could be seen as adhering to the moral principle of treating humanity as an end and upholding the inherent dignity of every individual, including the Joker. Therefore, whether Batman is morally upright or compromised can depend on the ethical framework one subscribes to.

Hedonism and Epicureanism

• Hedonism:

  • Asserts that the pursuit of pleasure is the highest good.

  • Pleasure equated with happiness; pain seen as bad.

• Example activities contributing to hedonic pleasure:

  • Drinking, smoking, and procrastination.

Epicureanism

• Focuses on long-term pleasure through:

  • Studying hard, investing, and exercising.

  • Emphasizes that true happiness often requires delayed gratification.

Film Analysis: Spirited Away

• Discussion questions include:

  1. What moral issues are presented in the film and how?

  2. What ethical teachings are highlighted and their presentation?

  3. What perspective does the author hold regarding good and evil?

  4. How does the work reflect on human nature?

Motivations and Reasons Chart

• Character Analysis for Moral Decision-Making:

  • Chihiro:

    • Conflict: Parents turned into pigs.

    • Motivation: To restore her parents' human form.

    • Action: Works in a bathhouse.

    • Result: Successfully saves her parents.

    • Moral Principle: Epicureanism.