ETH 316 Wk 1 Discussion – Ethics vs Moral Reasoning

Post a total of 3 substantive responses over 2 separate days for full participation. This includes your initial post and 2 replies to classmates or your faculty member.

Due Thursday

IMPORTANT: Answer all questions below in ONE response post. DO NOT POST 2 SEPARATE ANSWER POSTS.

Part One – Within the realm of Cognitive theories, there are two major categories or paths to choose from.

• Category #1 – According to this path, there are no set standards of moral right and wrong. Moral truths are a matter of opinion, not reason, and is based on feelings (individual, collective, etc.). Objective truth does not exist.

• Category #2 – According to this path, there are objective moral truths that do exist and they are true for all humans, regardless of feelings. There is a standard of right and wrong that exists for everyone. Everyone is included in the moral community; they “have moral value . . . and they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.” (see Chapter 1, pg 9)

The 1st Category, or path, is called relativism. The 2nd Category, or path, is universalist.

Question #1 – Based on the above descriptions, which cateogry (or path) most closely reflects you, personally? Why?

Part Two – Under each path, or category, there are several major ethics theories to explore.

Relativist Theories

1. Ethical subjectivism theory

2. Cultural relativism theory

3. Divine command theory

Universalist Theories

1. Ethical Egoism 4. Deontology

2. Utilitarianism 5. Virtue Ethics

3. Natural Law 6. Rights Ethics

Question #2 – You have already selected Relativism or Universalism in the first question.

a. Within your chosen category, which one of the major ethics theories best fits you? Why?

b. Within your chosen category, which one of the major ethics theories least fits you? Why?

IMPORTANT: Respond to all questions in ONE response post. DO NOT POST 2 SEPARATE ANSWER POSTS. A minimum of 175 words is required. Be sure to proofread for grammar and spelling.

Due Monday

Post 2 replies to classmates or your faculty member. Be constructive and professional.