Introduction to Ethical Theories
TL;DR
Ethics helps us figure out what's right and wrong by using different frameworks. You'll learn about three main ones: Consequentialism, Deontology, and Virtue Ethics. Each offers a unique way to decide how to act morally in a given situation.
1. The Mental Model
Think of ethical theories as different lenses you can wear to examine a problem. Each lens highlights certain aspects and downplays others, guiding you toward a moral judgment or decision. You're trying to find the "best" way to act.
2. The Core Material
When faced with a moral decision, you might instinctively think about the outcome, your duties, or what a good person would do. Ethical theories formalize these instincts into structured ways of thinking. We'll focus on three major categories.
Consequentialism
This theory says that the morality of an action is determined entirely by its outcomes. If an action leads to good results, it's considered right; if it leads to bad results, it's wrong. A common form is Utilitarianism, which aims to maximize overall happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people.
- Focus: Results, consequences, utility.
- Key Question: What action will produce the most good?
Deontology
Unlike consequentialism, deontology focuses on duties and rules. Certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. You have a moral duty to follow these universal rules. Immanuel Kant is a key figure here, emphasizing categorical imperatives – rules that apply universally and without exception.
- Focus: Duties, rules, moral obligations, intentions.
- Key Question: What are my moral duties here, and am I acting according to principles I'd want everyone to follow?
Virtue Ethics
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This approach isn't about actions or consequences, but about the character of the moral agent. It asks what a "virtuous person" would do in a given situation. The goal is to cultivate good character traits (virtues) like honesty, courage, compassion,