Understanding Ethics, Morality, and Social Responsibility
Equality: Equality means providing everyone with the same resources or opportunities, regardless of their starting point or needs. Treating everyone the same.
Equity: Giving people what they need to achieve fairness. It recognizes that people start from different places and therefore may need different resources or support to reach the same outcome.
Morals
What they are: Personal beliefs about right and wrong.
Influences: Shaped by things like society, culture, or religion.
How they apply: They aren’t specific to work; they can vary between different people and cultures.
Ethics
What they are: Rules or guidelines for how people should behave, especially in their professional life.
Influences: Shaped by your job, profession, or organization.
How they apply: They focus on professional conduct and tend to be more uniform (the same for everyone in a profession).
Ethical Values
Values: Beliefs about what is beneficial, desirable, and important.
Ethical Values: Values based on morals that guide decisions about what is right or good, shaping a person’s life and career.
Key Points:
- Based on moral standards
- Apply to everyone
- Provide reasons to prioritize certain actions over others
Ethical Principles
What they are: Concepts that guide what is considered good or bad, right or wrong.
Purpose: Help individuals determine what is good conduct in society.
Scope: Bigger than human relationships, including other creatures and the physical environment.
Key Ethical Actions:
- Beyond Personal Values: It’s important to act in line with professional or ethical values, not just personal values (especially if personal values are wrong).
- Speaking Up: Address when actions are wrong.
- Self-Reflection: Reflect on your own actions and their impact on others.
- Accountability: Be able and willing to explain your actions.
- Reflection on Others: Consider the actions of others and how they affect people.
Ethical reasoning: Using logic to differentiate questions of what’s right and wrong.
Law is about rules that everyone must follow, set by the government. Morality is about personal beliefs on what’s right and wrong.
Law is based on what can be enforced easily. Morality is based on personal standards of what people believe is always right or wrong.
Law is about what the state or government cares about (e.g., following rules). Morality is about what your conscience tells you is right or wrong.
Law is enforced by police or courts (using power). Morality is about following your own conscience or societal expectations (without formal punishment).
Sometimes, what’s legal might be morally okay, and sometimes what’s morally right might not be legal.
Law looks at what people do (actions), while morality looks at what people do and why they do it (motives).
Ethical Dilemmas
An ethical dilemma is when someone faces a situation where they have to choose between different moral responsibilities, and it’s unclear what the right choice is.
They might be torn between doing what they believe is right personally and professionally.
The best choice may be hard to do or uncomfortable.
The wrong choice might seem really tempting.
Conventional Morality
Conventional morality refers to a set of widely accepted rules and principles created by and for people in a society or culture. These rules are used to:
- Guide how people live their own lives (what is considered right or wrong).
- Judge the actions and motives of others (assessing if others are doing right or wrong).
It’s the moral system that society agrees on to help people understand how to behave and evaluate others’ behavior.
Critical Morality
Critical morality is a way of judging what’s truly right or wrong that doesn’t rely on what society says. It:
- Isn’t based on social rules or agreements made by people.
- Doesn’t include wrong ideas or popular biases that people might believe.
- Acts as a real standard to tell when society’s ideas of right and wrong are correct or when they are wrong.
It’s a better way to figure out if society’s rules are actually right or if they’ve gone wrong.
Moral Philosophy
Moral philosophy is the study of right and wrong. It has three main branches:
- Value Theory: Looks at what makes life good and meaningful (the “good life”).
- Normative Ethics: Focuses on what people should do—examining moral duties, right actions, virtues (good qualities), vices (bad qualities), and whether the ends justify the means.
- Metaethics: Looks at the truth behind ethical theories and moral principles, asking big questions like “What is moral wisdom?” and “What does it really mean to be right or wrong?”
In short, moral philosophy helps us think about what is right, why it’s right, and how we can figure it out.
Laws and traditions can be wrong – just because something is law or tradition doesn’t mean it’s always right.
Everyone makes mistakes – we all mess up morally sometimes.
Friendship is important – having friends matters.
We shouldn’t be expected to do the impossible – if something can’t be done, it’s not our fault.
Children are less responsible – they don’t carry the same moral responsibility as adults.
Justice is key – fairness is very important.
Hurting others on purpose needs a reason – you should have a good reason to hurt someone.
Treat people the same – if people are in the same situation, treat them equally.
Think about others, not just yourself – self-interest isn’t the only thing that matters.
Pain is bad – suffering should be avoided.
Power doesn’t make you right – just because someone has power doesn’t mean they’re always right.
People’s rights need to be protected – everyone should be able to make choices freely and with full information.
Normative Systems vs. Morality
Normative systems are things like laws, rules, traditions, values, and self-interest that guide how people behave.
Immoral behavior doesn’t always break the law (something bad might not be illegal).
Good manners aren’t the same as doing what’s morally right (being polite doesn’t always mean you’re doing the right thing).
Self-interest (doing what’s best for you) can be immoral (it might harm others).
Traditions might become immoral over time (just because something’s a tradition doesn’t make it always right).
Morality & Religion
Divine Command Theory says morality depends on God—without God, there is no real right or wrong.
People from Judeo-Christian-Islamic beliefs think morality comes from God.
This raises the question: Can we have morals without God? Some think we can, but others believe we can’t.
Logical Argument
Antecedent: This is the “if” part. It’s the condition or the thing that comes first. (Example: “If it rains…”)
Consequent: This is the “then” part. It’s what happens because of the condition. (Example: “…then the ground gets wet.”)
“If it rains” (antecedent), “then the ground gets wet” (consequent).
Moral Reasoning
Moral reasoning is about deciding what is right or wrong using logic.
Argument: It has premises (reasons) and a conclusion (the decision).
Moral reasoning checks: Are the reasons correct? Do the reasons lead to the decision logically? Is the decision correct based on the reasons? It helps us make sure our conclusions make sense.
Soundness of Arguments: Means that an argument can be logically correct but still have false premises or conclusions. Valid arguments can be logically correct but still be inaccurate in fact.
Modus Ponens
If one thing happens, then something else will happen. Example: If it rains, the ground gets wet. It rains, so the ground gets wet.
Modus Tollens
If something doesn’t happen, the other thing didn’t happen either. Example: If it rains, the ground gets wet. The ground is dry, so it didn’t rain.
Hypothetical Syllogism
If one thing leads to another, then the first thing leads to the last one. Example: If it rains, the ground gets wet. If the ground gets wet, plants grow. So, if it rains, plants grow.
Argument structure: If X happens, then Y will happen. If Y happens, then Z will happen. Therefore, if X happens, Z will happen.
Denying the “If” (Antecedent)
The argument says: “If P happens, then Q happens.” Then it says P didn’t happen, and concludes that Q didn’t happen.
Mistake: Just because P didn’t happen, doesn’t mean Q didn’t happen. Q could still happen for other reasons.
Example:
“If it rains, the ground will get wet.”
“It didn’t rain.”
“So, the ground didn’t get wet.”
But maybe someone watered the garden, so the ground is wet even without rain!
Affirming the “Then” (Consequent)
The argument says: “If P happens, then Q happens.” Then it says Q did happen, and concludes that P must have happened.
Mistake: Just because Q happened, doesn’t mean P caused it. Q might happen for other reasons.
Ad Hominem Fallacy
Is when someone attacks the person making an argument instead of addressing the argument itself. Key: The truth of an argument is separate from who is making it. Attacking the person doesn’t change whether the argument is right or wrong.
Appeals to Irrelevant Emotions Fallacy
This tries to change your opinion by making you feel a certain way, instead of giving you real facts and evidence.
Appeal to Ignorance Fallacy:
- Saying something is true just because we can’t prove it’s false.
- Saying something is false just because we can’t prove it’s true.
Mistake: Not knowing something doesn’t prove it’s true or false.
Straw Man Fallacy
This happens when someone misrepresents another person’s argument to make it easier to attack, instead of dealing with the real argument.
Hasty Generalization Fallacy
Making a big conclusion from just a few examples. Mistake: Just because something is true in a few cases doesn’t mean it’s true for everyone. These fallacies mess up logic and don’t rely on proper reasoning.
Consumerism
What it is: Buying more than just the basics (like luxury items).
Stats: The world has 4.75 billion consumers, but if everyone lived like Americans, we’d need 5.2 planets.
Natural Resource Depletion: Problem: We’re using up resources like water and forests too quickly because of consumerism. By 2030: We might run out of rainforests, water, and fish in the ocean.
Conclusion: Consumerism is draining resources, and they will run out soon.
Alienation (Disconnect from Nature)
Problem: People are disconnected from nature. For example, producing just one meal uses a lot of resources (water, soil, diesel, etc.).
Conclusion: People don’t realize how their actions hurt nature because they’re out of touch with it.
Impacts Beyond the West:
Problem: Consumerism leads to environmental damage, poverty, and hunger, especially in non-Western countries.
Conclusion: Capitalism in the West is responsible for these problems.
Ethical Consumerism:
Argument: If people cared about ethics, they’d support companies that do the right thing. But these companies don’t do better in the market.
Conclusion: People might not care as much about ethics when they shop, and factors like price and marketing affect their choices more.
The planet is needed for life.
We’re using up resources too fast.
People don’t realize how their choices harm nature.
Consumerism creates problems like pollution and poverty.
Ethical shopping isn’t as important to people as price and convenience.
Ethics, Morality & Justice
Ethics refers to the principles or rules that guide human behavior in terms of what is right and wrong. Morality refers to the personal or cultural beliefs about right and wrong, which can differ from person to person or society to society. Justice connects to fairness in society, ensuring that individuals are treated equally and that their rights are protected. It involves balancing the distribution of benefits and burdens in a way that is fair and just.
Seven Generations Thinking:
This idea encourages people to think beyond immediate needs and decisions by considering the impact on future generations—specifically the next seven generations. The principle is often used in environmental ethics, suggesting that we should act in ways that preserve the earth and its resources for the well-being of future generations, not just for ourselves.
Origins of Moral Philosophy
Moral philosophy traces back to ancient thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, who sought to understand the nature of right and wrong. Over time, different schools of thought have emerged, such as deontology (duty-based ethics), consequentialism (outcome-based ethics), and virtue ethics (character-based ethics). The origins of moral philosophy are critical because they lay the groundwork for modern ethical discussions.
Colonialism
Colonialism refers to the historical practice of one country taking control over another, often exploiting its resources and people. Ethically, colonialism raises significant issues about power, oppression, and exploitation. It brings up questions about justice, reparations, and the responsibility of former colonial powers for their actions.
Morality & Moral Reasoning
Moral reasoning is the process we go through to decide what is right or wrong, often involving reasoning through moral dilemmas or conflicting values. For instance, when faced with a tough decision, moral reasoning helps us weigh options, consider the consequences, and align decisions with ethical principles. It often involves balancing personal beliefs, societal norms, and philosophical frameworks to make the best choice.
Moral Skepticism
Moral skepticism is the belief that we can never know for sure what is morally right or wrong. Skeptics argue that different cultures, historical periods, and individual experiences make it impossible to have objective moral truths. This raises important questions about the nature of morality—is it subjective, or are there universal moral facts?
Principles of Ethics
Principles of ethics are the foundational guidelines used to evaluate actions and decisions. They include:
- Autonomy: Respecting an individual’s right to make their own decisions.
- Beneficence: Acting in ways that benefit others.
- Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm to others.
- Justice: Ensuring fairness and equality.
These principles help guide professional and personal conduct, ensuring that decisions and actions align with ethical standards.
Do No Harm
The principle of “Do No Harm” is central to many ethical systems, particularly in healthcare and professional fields. It means that actions should avoid causing harm to others, physically, emotionally, or socially. In medical ethics, this principle is a core part of the Hippocratic Oath, urging healthcare providers to prioritize patient safety and well-being. In broader terms, it emphasizes the responsibility to prevent harm in all professional and personal interactions.
Codes of Ethics vs. Codes of Conduct
Codes of Ethics: Focus on values and principles. Guides decision-making on what’s right vs. wrong. Example: A principle like “honesty” or “integrity.”
Codes of Conduct: Focus on specific behaviors and actions. Provides clear rules on what actions are expected. Example: “Be punctual,” “Respect confidentiality.”
Global Social Work Ethical Principles
Recognition of Dignity: Treat all people with respect, regardless of background.
Human Rights: Support fundamental rights for everyone (freedom, equality).
Social Justice & Equity: Work to reduce inequality and fight discrimination.
Right to Participation: Involve people in decisions affecting their lives.
Confidentiality: Keep personal information private unless there’s a risk of harm.
Respect for Whole Person: Understand all parts of a person’s life (physical, mental, emotional).
Ethical Use of Technology: Be cautious with digital data and privacy.
Professional Integrity
Hold required qualifications and keep skills up-to-date. Act with honesty and avoid abusing trust. Maintain a professional and personal boundary. Be accountable for your actions and respect ethical codes.
Do No Harm Concept
Medicine: Ensure actions don’t harm patients.
Human Services: Interventions should help, but we must also ask if they harm or create more problems.
Avoiding Harm: Focus on capacity-building and empowering people rather than labeling or fixing them. Example: Instead of providing services that keep people dependent, consider ways to help them participate in community life.
White Savior Complex
Recognizes the harm in thinking that people from privileged backgrounds are “better equipped” to solve issues faced by marginalized groups.
Conduct vs. Ethics
Conduct: Rules.
Ethics: Values and principles.
“I” Cultures vs. “We” Cultures
“I” Cultures:
Individuals are independent and separate from others and the earth.
The individual is often in conflict with others.
“We” Cultures:
Individuals exist in relationship with others and are part of a larger whole.
People are seen as interconnected and part of the earth.
Heroism
“I” Cultures:
Heroes stand up for personal beliefs—right or wrong.
“We” Cultures:
Heroes sacrifice for the greater good of society.
Law & Morality
“I” Cultures:
External laws guide behavior (followed to avoid punishment).
“We” Cultures:
Internalized morals guide behavior (followed due to guilt or shame).
Habits form moral behavior over time.
Relationship to the World
“I” Cultures:
Human beings are autonomous, separate from nature.
“We” Cultures:
Humans are dependent on the earth and universe.
Power Structures
“I” Cultures: Power comes from hierarchies, based on status or material things.
“We” Cultures: All life forms are equal participants in the life process.
Focus of Decision Making
“I” Cultures: Focus is on self; decisions are made individually.
“We” Cultures: Focus is on community; includes impact on others and society.
Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island
Humility, Bravery, Honesty, Wisdom, Truth, Respect, Love.
More than 50 nations & languages.
Planetary Ethics – Key Points
Planetary Subjects vs. Global Agents:
We should see ourselves as part of the planet (subjects), not just actors controlling it (agents).
The Earth is on Loan: We do not own the planet — we are temporary caretakers.
Shift in Ethical Focus: From rights-based cultures to responsibility-based cultures. From being responsible for others to being responsible to others (build real relationships and accountability).
Limits of Humanitarian Aid: True decolonization can’t happen through crisis response or just human rights activism — it requires deeper structural change.
Who Sets the Norms?: Ethical systems must be shaped by those who are impacted (“normative legitimacy” comes from the ground up — not imposed from outside).
Fostering Integrity – Key Points
Respect others’ opinions. Handle conflict honestly & respectfully. Own your actions – be accountable. Lead by example – be a role model. Show up prepared – be ready to work. Report unethical behavior.
What Is Integrity? – Key Points
Integrity: Transparency, reliability, commitment, sincerity. Builds trust and confidence.
Personal Integrity: Acting in line with your own values & principles.
Professional Integrity: Staying true to ethical, moral, social, and professional standards.