The observation of our today’s world enabled me to recognize that
despite the growing prosperity of our economic and cultural progression, our
international community is still unable to prevent and resolve many of the
social evils that are still very much present in today’s society. The fact that
our growing capability to embark upon these problems is becoming greater, yet
we’re still unable to tackle them shows the inadequacy of the social as well as
legal system. Such observation led me to believe that identification of the
right tools to reconcile these problems is the key. Amongst some of the answers
are ethical theories not only due to their ability to deal with a wider
spectrum of problems on an international level but also due to their simplicity
and basic ethical framework that they offer for both believers and
non-believers.
An example of one would be Kant’s deontological theory. When
looking at this particular theory we’re able to note that the theory is more
concerned with actions rather than its results putting emphasis on one’s
reasoning. His theory is structured based on two particular beliefs, one being
that morality is rational and since rationality is universal, possessed by all
human beings. Second one being that fulfilling one’s duty is the right thing to
do in addition to the fact that we ought to do it. We’re able to see that
ethical theories provide a moral agent with the structure needed for the making
of moral decisions.
When looking at Kant’s
theory in particular we’re able to note that the emphasis on duty helps us to
recognize the fact that as human beings our inner moral sense differs and is
stronger or weaker towards meeting some obligations over others. Surely if we
all acted out of duty and did what we meant to do more of evil would be
prevailed? Whether out of duty or not if we all donated to charity surely the
charity is more likely to help its cause. We’re able to see that the use of ethical
theories such as Kant’s deontological theory could be seen as an answer to some
of the social evils. However, some might say that it is important to note that
although ethical theories provide us with the moral basis; it is the
application of the theory that could potentially resolve them not the theory
itself. The fact is that like most solutions this one too isn’t perfect, it is
therefore up to us to ensure its success as the success of ethical theories depends
on our own willingness to oblige them.
S.S
S.S
An interesting post! I might have to get Mrs Treacy to comment further on this as she is he expert on ethics. However, what happens when due to our moral duties we follow a course of action, but the consequences are negative or even 'evil'? Also what do we base out duties upon?
ReplyDeleteThanks for your contribution!
Do you think duty is powerful enough to move people to do the 'right' action nowadays? Many people know it is wrong to abuse and neglect their children or even to drop their litter on the ground, yet continue they continue to do so. The problem or concern I have with Kant's theory of duty is that he failed to define clearly what our duty is.
ReplyDeleteSimilarly, to say to a robber “it is your duty to respect the property of others” is one thing but we need to make sure we are not so naïve as to think that will be enough. Some may argue that there also needs to be deterrents, punishments etc in place.
Do you think duty is an old-fashioned idea? The emphasis on action by our society and the media, which shapes today’s thinking, is not one of cold, emotionless duty that Kant emphased but one of compassion and charity. For example, telethons such as Comic Relief and Children in Need rely on evoking an emotional response in people, which will make them pick up the phone and donate money. This is incredibly successful and seems to make a big difference to the groups the charities aim to help. If those causes relied on duty alone, many people would not be motivated to act. If we were all to take a Kantian view, such worthwhile organisations could not survive.
As far as the environment is concerned, many people are now taking action because they feel scared of what might happen, or concerned about the effect on wildlife. As long as the actions are good, some may argue why should it matter that its our emotions making us take them rather than our duty?
Again a very enjoyable and engaging article.