In AOK groups, consider the value of RLS (Real Life Situations) BEFORE clicking here to reveal some ideas to support your discussions....
The arts - This RLS shows how there is often a difficult relationship between the moral position of the artist, and the work that they produce. It poses questions such as how should we view the art of people who have questionable moral stances, and should we ‘cancel’ it?
History - This RLS shows the importance of remembering events from the past in order to be more aware of moral transgressions in the present. Do we all have a responsibility to know about the past? How does this help us become more morally-aware knowers?
The human sciences - This RLS shows us that we need to become ‘long-term thinkers’ in order to safeguard civilization, and also understand the key issues going on in the human and natural world (specifically, climate change). Do we have a moral obligation to think in this way?
Mathematics - This RLS shows that mathematical knowledge (algorithms) does not provide us with an absolutely objective foundation point for making ethical decisions - because humans are behind their development.
The natural sciences - This RLS shows us there are many ethically controversial issues in the natural sciences, such as lab-grown embryos. This leads us onto questions such as whether there should be limitations on the production of knowledge in science.
Write a TOK essay-style introduction to the question:
How does our knowledge about the world
inform the way we construct our values?
How to write an introduction:
A ‘hook’ to grab the attention of your readers - this could be an engaging, interesting, intriguing opening, like a quote or a key idea or theory
Explain the key words and ideas of the title, and how you will interpret them
Outline the scope of your essay - ie the AOKs you will focus on. Usually, TOK essays ask you to look at 2 different areas of knowledge
The introduction of your TOK essay is massively important! If tricky terms in the title are not defined, or the scope of the essay not properly explained, your essay will always struggle to make sense.
2. Are there certain ‘moral rules’ that everyone has a responsibility to follow? Can you give any examples?
3. What problems might we encounter in trying to impose ‘moral rules’?
4. To what extent do you think we should be allowed to believe what we want? Should there be any limits to this?
5. What is your understanding of moral relativism? Note down your thoughts before watching Watch the short video. Draw up a list of pros and cons of being a relativist. Include the following terms and examples in your answer.
Culture
Absolute truth
Moral rules & social customs
Right
Ethnocentric - imposing your own set of rules on other cultures
Examples - bullfighting, customs in ancient Rome, Nazi Germany
6. Write a response to this statement: “You do not have the right to believe whatever you want." after reading this:
PLENARY: share your response...