ethical framworks

Introduction to Ethical Frameworks

• All ethical frameworks consider consequences.

• Distinction between consequentialism and other ethical frameworks.

Deontological Ethics

• Definition: Focus on duty and what one ought to do regardless of outcomes.

• Main sources of duty include:

  • Commands from a competent authority (e.g., divine command).

  • Human reason and natural law (highlighted by Thomas Aquinas).

• Duty is not derived solely from divine command due to issues of trust in God.

  • In a pluralistic society, the source of duty is often mutual human experience rather than divine command.

Natural Law

• Draws from reason and revelation.

• Aligns moral decisions with natural inclinations.

• Catholic view includes both scripture and tradition as revelations.

Ethical Frameworks and Authority

• Different religious sects (Catholic vs. Protestant) may interpret ethics based on their understanding of scripture and tradition.

• Importance of forming conscience through a combination of natural inclination and understanding of scripture.

Kantian Ethics

• Utilizes the Categorical Imperative which emphasizes acting according to universalizable maxims.

• Focuses on duty rather than the outcomes of actions.

• Challenges the notion that ethical decisions can be solely outcome-driven.

Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing

• Eudaimonia refers to a state of flourishing and well-being.

• Happiness can be separated from economic or material success.

  • The aim should be to engage in activities that fulfill and foster personal growth, not merely profit.

Critique of Utilitarianism

• Utilitarianism aims for the maximization of pleasure or happiness, but often overlooks individual rights and the inherent dignity of persons.

• The potential for exploitation or harm to marginalized groups in the name of maximizing happiness for the greater number.

• Contrasts with Kantian ethics which treats all individuals as ends and not as means to an end.

Teleological vs. Consequentialist Ethics

• Teleological ethics (including deontological) focus on purposes and outcomes as part of ethical considerations, but do not define goodness solely by outcomes.

• Consequentialism exclusively ties ethical values to outcomes.

Ethical Decision-Making Examples and Complexities

• Example of the Trolley Problem: Makes clear the tension between deontological (duty-based) and consequentialist (outcome-based) ethics.

• Ethical dilemmas often highlight the complexities and ambiguity in moral decision-making.

Examining the Trolley Problem

• Choices must be made in life-or-death situations—e.g., sacrificing one to save multiple others raises profound moral questions.

• Decisions are shaped by various factors, including societal norms, individual belonging to communities, and personal beliefs.

Note on Ethical Framework Applications

• Every ethical framework must incorporate community values and societal agreements as foundational.

• Modern ethics increasingly navigates beyond individualistic interpretations that emerged during the Enlightenment.

Atonement Theories in Christian Ethics

• Atonement theories provide context for understanding Christian moral obligations.

• Key Atonement Theories:

  • Ransom Theory: Spiritual slavery and redemption through Christ’s sacrifice.

  • Recapitulation Theory: Christ as reconciling humanity, contrasting Adam's disobedience with Christ's obedience.

  • Satisfaction Theory: Focus on satisfying divine justice.

  • Moral Exemplar Theory: Jesus as a model for ethical behavior.

  • Healing Theory: Jesus’ role in spiritual healing and restoration.

Implications of Ethical Theories

• Each theory carries ethical implications about human behavior, responsibility, and the nature of sin and redemption.

• Exploration of individual and social identities shaped by these theological frameworks is crucial.

Conclusion

• Ethical frameworks must consider a balance of consequences, community, and duties.

• Continuous dialogue in ethics is essential for understanding moral responsibilities and implications within diverse contexts.