Ethics, Democracy, and Global Citizenship: A Guide to Values and Conflicts
1. Ethics and Happiness
1.1. What is Ethics?
Ethics is a branch of philosophy, a moral dimension characterized by the pursuit of truth and values. It differs from morality, which encompasses customs, beliefs, and habits.
1.2. Reflections on Happiness
- Happiness is not found by chance; it is the result of a search.
- Finding happiness depends on ourselves and our circumstances.
- Each person can understand happiness differently.
1.3. Basic Values for Happiness
Equality, justice, and solidarity contribute to greater possibilities for achieving true happiness.
1.4. Alternatives to Happiness
- Value what you have.
- Cultivate the ability to love and feel loved.
- Help those around you live happy and peaceful lives.
- Create dreams and future projects.
2. Democracy and Human Rights
2.1. Democracy
Democracy, from the Greek demos (people) and kratos (power), is a form of social organization where power resides in all members. Decisions reflect the collective will, and sovereignty lies with the people.
2.1.1. Types of Democracy
- Direct democracy: Decisions are made directly by the people.
- Indirect/representative democracy: Decisions are made by elected representatives.
- Participatory democracy: Citizens directly influence public decisions through various mechanisms.
2.1.2. Elements of Democracy
- A constitution defining rights, duties, and state functions.
- Separation of powers (parliament, government, courts).
- Equal rights for all citizens.
- Equal voting rights.
2.2. Third-Generation Human Rights
- Right to peace: Advocates for disarmament, non-aggression, and peaceful conflict resolution.
- Right to development: Aims to eradicate global poverty.
- Right to a healthy environment: Emphasizes the importance of environmental protection.
- Right to cultural identity: Protects the cultural identity of all peoples, especially indigenous groups.
2.3. Values
Values are convictions and beliefs that regulate human behavior. They are personal ideals, chosen through free will, that shape identity and guide actions.
3. Peace and Conflict
3.1. The Meaning of Peace
Peace is more than the absence of armed conflict. It is a process of progress, justice, and mutual respect, aiming to build an international society where everyone has a place and access to resources.
3.2. Understanding Conflict
Conflict is a disagreement or clash of ideas, interests, or values. There are two main perspectives on conflict:
- Negative view: Conflict is harmful and should be avoided.
- Positive view: Conflict is a natural occurrence that should be addressed and resolved peacefully.
3.3. Types of Peace
- Negative peace: The absence of war or armed conflict.
- Positive peace: Social harmony based on justice and equality.
3.4. Classes of Conflict
- Personal conflict: Internal conflict within an individual.
- Interpersonal conflict: Conflict between individuals.
4. Poverty, Discrimination, and Global Citizenship
4.1. Poverty
- Extreme poverty: Inability to meet basic needs for survival.
- Relative poverty: Difficulty in meeting some basic needs.
4.2. Discrimination
- Xenophobia: Fear and hatred of foreigners and other cultures.
- Racism: Discrimination based on race.
- Machismo: Arrogant male attitude based on the belief of male superiority.
- Sexism: Discrimination based on sex.
- Feminism: Movement advocating for equal rights and emancipation of women.
4.3. The Earth Charter
The Earth Charter (1997) proclaims values and principles for building a just, sustainable, and peaceful global society in the 21st century.
4.4. Global Citizenship and Sustainable Development
Global citizenship promotes awareness of human dignity, belonging to local and global communities, and commitment to a sustainable and equitable world. Sustainable development meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.