LECTURE NOTES: INTRODUCTION TO
ETHICS
1. Meaning and Definition of Ethics
Ethics is a branch of philosophy that deals with questions about what is morally right
and wrong, good and bad, fair and unfair.
It examines human conduct and seeks to establish principles that guide individuals
and societies in determining moral behavior.
Key Definitions:
Aristotle: Ethics is the study of what is good for human beings and how
people should live to achieve a good life (eudaimonia).
Immanuel Kant: Ethics is the science of duty — a system of moral rules
based on reason.
John Stuart Mill: Ethics is about promoting the greatest happiness for the
greatest number.
Oxford Dictionary: Ethics refers to moral principles that govern a person’s
behavior or the conducting of an activity.
In summary:
Ethics concerns itself with “what ought to be done” and “why it ought to be done.”
2. Nature of Ethics
1.
Normative Discipline:
Ethics prescribes standards of behavior rather than merely describing what
people do. It deals with what should be.
2.
3.
Philosophical Inquiry:
It involves reasoning and critical thinking about moral values and judgments.
4.
5.
Universal and Contextual:
Ethical principles may be universal (applicable to all humans) but their
application often depends on social, cultural, or situational contexts.
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7.
Concerned with Human Conduct:
Ethics focuses on voluntary actions — those performed with intention and
understanding.
8.
9.
Value-Oriented:
Ethics emphasizes human values such as honesty, justice, respect, and
responsibility.
10.
3. Importance of Ethics
Ethics plays a vital role in shaping individuals and society. It helps to:
1.
Guide Human Behavior:
Provides principles for distinguishing right from wrong.
2.
3.
Promote Social Harmony:
Encourages cooperation, trust, and peaceful coexistence.
4.
5.
Develop Character:
Cultivates virtues like integrity, compassion, and accountability.
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7.
Support Professional Integrity:
Ethical codes in professions (e.g., law, medicine, social work) ensure
responsible service.
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9.
Enhance Decision-Making:
Enables individuals to make morally sound judgments in complex situations.
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11.
Build Trust in Society:
Ethical behavior fosters credibility in leadership, business, and governance.
12.
4. Branches of Ethics
Ethics is divided into three main branches:
a) Normative Ethics
Concerned with establishing moral standards and principles that regulate right
and wrong actions.
Examples of Theories:
o
Deontological Ethics (Duty-based): Emphasizes duties and rules
(Kant).
o
o
Teleological or Consequentialist Ethics: Judges actions by their
outcomes (Utilitarianism).
o
o
Virtue Ethics: Focuses on moral character (Aristotle).
b) Meta-Ethics
Examines the meaning and nature of ethical terms and moral judgments.
Explores questions like:
What do we mean by “good” or “right”?
o
o
Are moral truths objective or subjective?
c) Applied Ethics
Deals with the application of moral principles to specific issues.
Examples:
Bioethics: Medical and health issues (e.g., euthanasia, abortion).
o
o
Environmental Ethics: Responsibility toward nature.
o
o
Business Ethics: Corporate social responsibility, fairness, and
corruption.
5. Ethics vs Morality
Aspect Ethics Morality
Definitio Systematic study of moral Individual or societal beliefs
n principles and values about right and wrong
Philosophical reasoning and Religion, culture, and
Source
analysis tradition
Nature Theoretical or academic Practical and everyday
“Is lying ever morally “I should not lie because it’s
Example
justified?” wrong.”
In essence, morality is the content, while ethics is the study or reflection upon that
content.
6. Ethical Theories
a) Consequentialism
Judges actions by their outcomes.
Utilitarianism (John Stuart Mill & Jeremy Bentham):
The right action is the one that produces the greatest happiness for the greatest
number.
b) Deontological Ethics (Immanuel Kant)
Emphasizes duty and rules.
Actions are right or wrong regardless of their consequences.
Example: Telling the truth is right even if it causes harm.
c) Virtue Ethics (Aristotle)
Focuses on moral character rather than specific acts.
A virtuous person acts rightly out of habit and good moral character.
d) Ethical Relativism
Moral judgments depend on cultural or individual perspectives.
There is no absolute moral truth.
e) Divine Command Theory
Morality is determined by God’s will; actions are right if commanded by God.
7. Ethical Values and Principles
Common ethical principles include:
1.
Respect for Persons: Treating people with dignity and autonomy.
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3.
Justice: Fairness and equality in treatment and distribution of resources.
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5.
Beneficence: Promoting good and preventing harm.
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7.
Non-maleficence: “Do no harm.”
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Integrity: Acting honestly and consistently with moral principles.
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Responsibility: Being accountable for one’s actions.
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Confidentiality: Respecting privacy and sensitive information.
14.
8. Factors Influencing Ethical Behavior
1.
Cultural and Social Norms
2.
3.
Religious Beliefs and Traditions
4.
5.
Education and Upbringing
6.
7.
Peer Influence and Social Pressure
8.
9.
Legal Systems and Governance
10.
11.
Personal Values and Conscience
12.
9. Ethics in Professional and Public Life
Ethical behavior is essential across professions:
Public Service: Accountability, transparency, and service to citizens.
Business: Fair trade, honest marketing, and corporate responsibility.
Education: Academic honesty and respect for learners.
Research: Integrity, informed consent, and avoidance of plagiarism.
10. Ethical Decision-Making Process
1.
Identify the Ethical Issue
2.
3.
Gather Relevant Information
4.
5.
Evaluate Possible Alternatives
6.
7.
Consider Ethical Principles and Values
8.
9.
Make a Decision
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11.
Implement and Reflect on the Outcome
12.
11. Challenges in Practicing Ethics
Conflicts between personal and professional values.
Cultural diversity and moral relativism.
Pressure to conform or compromise integrity.
Lack of ethical education and awareness.
Corruption and misuse of power.
