What Are Ethical Theories?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

Ethical theories are thus formal statements about what we ought to do, when faced with an ethical dilemma . ... In trying to answer such questions, it becomes clear that one of the central issues in ethics is whether we should focus on the consequences or the nature of actions.

What is the meaning of ethical theories?

Ethical Theories are attempts to provide a clear, unified account of what our ethical obligations are . They are attempts, in other words, to tell a single “story” about what we are obligated to do, without referring directly to specific examples.

What are the ethical theories and examples?

27) define normative ethics as “theories of ethics that are concerned with the norms, standards or criteria that define principles of ethical behaviour.” The most common examples of normative ethical theories are utilitarianism, Kantian duty-based ethics (deontology), and divine command theory , which are described ...

What are the 5 theories of ethics?

Here, we take a brief look at (1) utilitarianism, (2) deontology, (3) social justice and social contract theory , and (4) virtue theory.

What are the 4 ethical theories?

Our brief and admittedly incomplete discussion will be limited to four ethical theories: utilitarian ethics, deontological (or Kantian) ethics, virtue ethics, and principlism .

What are the 3 main theories of ethics?

These three theories of ethics ( utilitarian ethics, deontological ethics, virtue ethics ) form the foundation of normative ethics conversations.

What are the 7 principles of ethics?

The principles are beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, justice; truth-telling and promise-keeping .

What is the most common ethical theory?

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that determines right from wrong by focusing on outcomes. It is a form of consequentialism. Utilitarianism holds that the most ethical choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number.

What are the six ethical theories?

When asked what values people hold dear, what values they wish to be known by, and what values they wish others would exhibit in their actions, six values consistently turn up: (1) trustworthiness, (2) respect, (3) responsibility, (4) fairness, (5) caring, and (6) citizenship .

What is Emotivism theory?

Emotivism, In metaethics (see ethics), the view that moral judgments do not function as statements of fact but rather as expressions of the speaker’s or writer’s feelings .

What are the eight main theories of ethics?

‘ The following chapters analyse the answers provided by eight different theories of ethics: egoism, hedonism, naturalism and virtue theory, existentialism, Kantianism, utilitarianism, contractualism and religion .

What are the moral theories in ethics?

There are a number of moral theories: utilitarianism, Kantianism, virtue theory, the four principles approach and casuistry . Utilitarians think that the point of morality is to maximize the amount of happiness that we produce from every action.

What is Kant’s approach to ethics?

Kantian ethics refers to a deontological ethical theory developed by German philosopher Immanuel Kant that is based on the notion that: “It is impossible to think of anything at all in the world, or indeed even beyond it, that could be considered good without limitation except a good will .” The theory was developed as ...

What are your ethics in life?

Honesty, caring and compassion, integrity, and personal responsibility are values that can help you behave ethically when faced with ethical dilemmas in your personal life. The following illustrates the application of these values and ethical reasoning in real life issues and issues you may face personally.

What are the 3 ethical frameworks?

Three Frameworks

Based upon the three-part division of traditional normative ethical theories discussed above, it makes sense to suggest three broad frameworks to guide ethical decision making: The Consequentialist Framework; The Duty Framework; and the Virtue Framework .

What are examples of ethics?

  • Honesty. Many people view honesty as an important ethic. ...
  • Loyalty. Loyalty is another common personal ethic that many professionals share. ...
  • Integrity. ...
  • Respect. ...
  • Selflessness. ...
  • Responsibility.
Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.