Morality and the self Flashcards
A branch of philosophy, examines what is right and wrong, guiding human behavior through moral principles
Ethics
“moralitas” meaning
Manner
Refers to a code of conduct that defines standards for what is rigth and wrong behavior
Morality
are explicit or understood regulations goberning conduct within specific activities or spheres
Rules
__ posited that humans are rational animals and social beings
Aristotle
“socius” meaning
companion or ally
Importance of Rules to Social Beings
Regulates Behavior
Guarantees rights and freedom
Sense of Justcice
Healthy Economic system
encompass the rules individuals believe gobern right and wrong actions
Moral standards
Key characteristics of moral standards
Universality
Impartial considerations
Associated emotions
arises when an individual faces a difficult choice between two actions that conflict with moral principles
Moral Dilemma
Key features of moral dilemma
Conflicting choices
Capability
Moral failure
Neither requirement overriden
Humans can be ethical
Rationality
Autonomy
Self-consciousness
Minimum requirements for morality
Reason
Impartiality
Rules establish norms that guide behavior, helping individuals understand what is acceptable in society
Regulates Behavior
Laws and ethical tules protect individuals’ rights, ensuring that everyone can enjoy freedom without infringing on others’ rights
Guarantees rights and freedom
A structured set of rules fosters a sense of justice, allowing individuals to understand fairness and equity in interactions
Sense of justice
Rules create a framework for fair trade and economic interactions, encouraging trust and cooperation in the marketplace
Healthy Economic System
Moral standards apply to everyone, regardless of personal beliefs or circumstances
Universality
They are based on objective reasoning rather than subjective feelings
Impartial Consideration
Moral standards often invoke strong emotional responses, sucb as guilt or pride, when violated or upheld
Associated Emotions
The agent is required to perform conflicting actions
Conflicting choices
The agent can perform both actions but is prevented from doing so by ethical constraints
Capability
Regardless of choice, the agent feels condemned to fail morally
Moral failure
The conflicting moral requirements stand without any one being prioritized over the other
Neither requirement overriden
Humans can think critically and analyze ethical dilemmas
Rationality
Individuals possess the freedom to make choices based on their moral beliefs
Autonomy
Awareness of oneself and one’s actions allows for reflection kn ethical behavior
Self-consciousness
Individuals must use logic and critical thinking to assess moral situations
Reason
Fair and unbiased consideration of all parties involved is essential for ethical decision-making
Impartiality