Ethical Relativism Flashcards
asserts
that morality depends on cultural, historical, or personal circumstances
Ethical relativism
asserts
that universal moral principles are applicable to all individuals, regardless of circumstances.
moral absolutism
argues that moral values are shaped by social, cultural, and individual perspectives.
What is considered right or wrong is subjective and can vary across different societies.
Ethical relativism
Ethical relativism denies the existence of objective,
universally applicable moral principles.
Rejection of Universal Moral Standards
Each culture or society establishes its ethical framework, and
cultural traditions dictate what is considered morally acceptable or unacceptable within that group.
Cultural Determination of Ethics
The norms, values, and historical contexts of a particular
society shape moral judgments. What is deemed ethical is influenced by the collective beliefs and
practices of the community at a given time.
Influence of Societal Norms and Context
Ethical relativism can justify harmful or unethical practices (such
as discrimination or human rights abuses) if they are culturally accepted.
Justification of Unethical Practices
By asserting that all moral codes are equally valid, relativism
discourages critical examination of harmful practices and hinders moral growth and societal
progress.
Prevention of Moral Progress
In multicultural societies, ethical relativism can lead to conflicting moral
standards, making it difficult to resolve ethical disagreements.
Moral Inconsistency
asserts that certain ethical principles are universal and unchanging, regardless of
cultural or individual differences.
Moral absolutism
Moral laws apply to all individuals equally, regardless of culture, period,
or personal beliefs. Right and wrong are objective and unchanging.
Universal Moral Principles
Ethical truths exist independently of societal norms or
traditions. Morality is not determined by cultural perspectives but is based on fixed principles that
go beyond cultural beliefs and customs.
Independence from Cultural Influence
Certain actions are inherently immoral, regardless of circumstances.
Inherent Right and Wrong
Regardless of nationality or culture, all individuals have fundamental rights
that should be upheld.
Universal Human Rights
Regardless of context, taking another person’s life without justification is
universally condemned.
Murder is Wrong
Moral absolutism can be rigid, ignoring cultural diversity and the complexity of
human societies.
Lack of Flexibility
It may not provide clear answers in situations where ethical
principles conflict, such as balancing honesty with compassion
Difficulty in Resolving Moral Dilemmas
Even if universal moral values exist, different cultures and individuals may
interpret and apply them differently based on context.
Interpretation Variation
is the ability to make choices independently, without being entirely controlled by external forces
or deterministic factors.
Free will
Individuals have control over their decisions.
Autonomy
People can distinguish right from wrong and are accountable for their
choices.
Ethical Responsibility
Biological or environmental factors do not entirely determine human actions.
Independence
An individual works hard to overcome negative habits, which demonstrates self
improvement through conscious effort.
Personal Growth
Citizens make independent political decisions without external coercion.
Voting in Elections
Decisions may still be influenced by genetics, upbringing, and societal norms.
External Influences
Neuroscientific studies suggest that brain activity may determine choices before
conscious awareness.
Neuroscience
Free will may be limited in extreme situations, such as coercion or mental
illness.
Extreme Situations
is the obligation to act in accordance with ethical principles and be accountable for
one’s actions. I
Moral responsibility
Moral responsibility requires the ability to make choices. Individuals must have control
over their actions and the freedom to choose between different options.
Agency
People must be held accountable for the consequences of their actions, whether
they were intentional or unintentional.
Accountability
A person must understand the potential consequences of their actions and be aware of
the ethical implications before deciding.
Awareness
Moral responsibility assumes that the person is capable of understanding right from
wrong. It is often considered in the context of age, mental health, or other factors that might impair
decision-making.
Capacity
A corporation that pollutes the environment has a moral responsibility
to minimize harm to the planet and take actions to protect natural resources.
Environmental stewardship
If actions are determined by prior causes (genetics, upbringing, external influences),
individuals may not have true moral responsibility, as their choices aren’t fully free.
Determinism
The idea that outcomes often depend on factors beyond a person’s control challenges
the fairness of assigning moral responsibility, as two people may make the same decision but face
different consequences.
Moral Luck
Individuals with mental health conditions or diminished cognitive
abilities may not be fully responsible for their actions, which raises ethical concerns about
accountability.
Mental Health and Capacity
suggests that all events, including human actions, are caused by prior conditions and
cannot occur otherwise
Determinism
Every action is the result of preceding causes, which influence outcomes.
Causality of Actions
A combination of biological, environmental, and social factors influences
human behavior.
Shaping of Behavior
may be an illusion, as our choices are often shaped by past
experiences and external influences, leaving little room for true autonomy.
Questioning Free Will
If actions are determined by external forces or internal conditioning, it may
undermine moral responsibility and accountability for one’s actions.
Moral Accountability
Research shows that individuals can adapt and alter their behaviors over time,
which suggests the possibility of overcoming deterministic influences through personal growth and
intervention.
Capacity for Change
Human decisions may not be purely determined; rather, they may
involve a blend of pre-existing influences and some degree of free will.
Complex Decision-Making
governs decision-making processes and ensures that companies operate with integrity
and fairness.
Business ethics
Companies should provide truthful information to customers and
stakeholders.
Honesty and Transparency
Fair wages, safe working conditions, and non-discriminatory policies
are essential.Corporate Governance
Fair Treatment of Employees
Businesses must ensure product safety and avoid deceptive marketing.
Consumer Protection
Ethical leadership and accountability prevent corruption and fraud.
Corporate Governance
A company that accurately represents its products in ads
demonstrates ethical behavior, whereas misleading claims deceive consumers.
Honest Advertising vs. False Advertising
Paying employees a living wage versus underpaying workers in
sweatshops.
Fair Wages vs. Exploitation
Implementing eco-friendly production methods versus
disposing of waste irresponsibly.
Environmental Sustainability vs. Pollution
focuses on the ethical obligations of businesses toward social and
environmental well-being.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Reducing carbon footprints, adopting renewable energy, and
minimizing waste.
Environmental Sustainability
Supporting education, healthcare, and job creation initiatives in local
communities.
Community Engagement
Providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and respecting workers’
rights.
Ethical Labor Practices
Donating a portion of profits to charities and social causes.
Philanthropy
Companies using biodegradable materials to reduce environmental
impact.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Supporting suppliers in developing countries by ensuring fair compensation.
Fair Trade Practices
Ethical businesses attract loyal customers and improve brand reputation.
Consumer Trust
Fair treatment of employees increases job satisfaction and productivity.
Employee Morale
Investors are more likely to support companies with strong ethical standards.
Investor Confidence
Companies practicing CSR can achieve sustainable success by aligning
financial goals with social impact.
Long-Term Profitability
