1. Ethics and Morality Theory
Part 2
28 January 2008

2. Recap Ethics: study of the systems of belief about morality
Our focus: ethical dilemmas
When ethical principles conflict
Conceptual muddles: when the answer in cyberspace and physical space may be different
Looking at normative ethics: frameworks that define what we should do

3. Specifically, we will look at
Ethical relativism
Individual (or subjective)
Cultural
Normative ethical theories
Deontological
Kantianism
Contractualism
Teleological
Utilitarianism

4. Ethical Relativism Is there anything universally right or wrong?
How is right or wrong decided?

5. Individual Relativism
Is this the same as tolerance?
For
Well-meaning, intelligent people can disagree
Against
Does not provide moral distinction.
What does morality mean?
Not based on reason
People are good at rationalization

6. Exercise
Write down your view on sharing of electronic media (music, video, writing, software)
Break into small groups and discuss

7. Cultural Relativism Consider Hampden-Turner and Trompenaars work For
Different social contexts
Arrogance to judge
Are there examples when we should impose views on a society?
Against
Evolution of practices
Societies do share core values

8. We will not consider relativism any further

9. Normative Ethical Theories
Deontological: based on the sense of duty
Right because of the act
Teleological: based on the result
Right because of the result
Exercise: Break into groups and come up with an original example of how they differ
Is there an ethical issue here?