Deontology
Deontology
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Focuses on universal principles and duties, asserting that actions are morally right if they follow ethical rules, regardless of outcomes.
Real world application
Real world application
A doctor follows the principle of patient confidentiality even when disclosing information could benefit someone else. For instance, if a patient has a contagious disease but doesn’t want others to know, the doctor still upholds confidentiality because it is a moral duty, regardless of the potential harm to others. This aligns with deontological ethics, where following ethical rules takes precedence over the outcomes.
Article supporting this information :
Article supporting this information :
Challenges of Confidentiality in Clinical Settings: Compilation of an Ethical Guideline
Consequentialism (Utilitarianism)
Consequentialism (Utilitarianism)
Evaluates morality based on outcomes, arguing that an action is right if it maximizes happiness or minimizes suffering.
Real world application
Real world application
During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments imposed lockdowns to prevent the spread of the virus, even though it caused economic hardships and personal sacrifices. Utilitarianism supports these actions because they aim to save as many lives as possible, maximizing overall happiness and minimizing suffering, even at the expense of some individuals.
Article supporting this information :
Article supporting this information :
Utilitarianism and the Pandemic
Virtue ethics
Virtue ethics
Centers on developing virtuous traits (like honesty and courage) and posits that a virtuous person will naturally make ethical decisions.
Real world application
Real world application
A firefighter who rushes into a burning building to save people demonstrates courage, a virtue of virtue ethics. This individual does not act based on rules or outcomes but on a virtuous character trait. Their courage naturally leads them to make ethical decisions in dangerous situations.
Article supporting this information :
Article supporting this information :
The Role of Ethics and Morality in the Fire Service
www.firefighternation.com/fire-leadership/the-role-of-ethics-and-morality-in-the-fire-service/#gref
REligious and cultural frameworks
REligious and cultural frameworks
Moral guidance comes from divine commandments or cultural norms, with cultural relativism suggesting morality varies across societies.
Real world application
Real world application
In many religious traditions, giving to charity is considered a moral obligation. For example, in Islam, the act of Zakat requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. This action is driven by religious commandments, showing how morality can be guided by divine principles.
Article supporting this information :
Article supporting this information :
Zakat: The Basic Rules for One of the Five Pillars of Islam
evolutionary psychology
evolutionary psychology
Explains moral instincts like empathy as survival mechanisms that enhance group cooperation and societal cohesion.
Real world application
Real world application
Parents often display strong empathy and protective instincts toward their children. Evolutionary psychology suggests these instincts evolved to ensure the survival of their offspring, promoting the continuity of genes. This explains why parents may sacrifice their own well-being to protect their children, reflecting empathy as a survival mechanism for species preservation.
Article supporting this information :
Article supporting this information :
Parenting Matters: Supporting Parents of Children Ages 0-8
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