uncollapse
03-15-2008, 10:45 AM
------- Definitions from Wiki ---------------
Consequentialism refers to those moral theories which hold that the consequences of a particular action form the basis for any valid moral judgment about that action. Thus, from a consequentialist standpoint, a morally right action is one that produces a good outcome, or consequence.
Deontological ethics is commonly contrasted with consequentialist or teleological ethical theories, according to which the rightness of an action is determined by its consequences.
Virtue theory is a branch of moral philosophy that emphasizes character, rather than rules or consequences, as the key element of ethical thinking. Virtue ethics focuses on the character of the agent rather than on the nature or consequences of the action itself.
-------------------------------------------------------
For example, a consequentialist may argue that lying is wrong because of the negative consequences produced by lying — though a consequentialist may allow that certain foreseeable consequences might make lying acceptable. A deontologist might argue that lying is always wrong, regardless of any potential "good" that might come from lying. A virtue ethicist, however, would focus less on lying in any particular instance and instead consider what a decision to tell a lie or not tell a lie said about one's character.
Please vote which moral inclinations best describe you? :)
PS: Moderator, not sure if you would deem this to be in the right forum, but pls keep this in grassroot central for some time for me to take my polls. There might be something interesting to explore here. Thank you.
Consequentialism refers to those moral theories which hold that the consequences of a particular action form the basis for any valid moral judgment about that action. Thus, from a consequentialist standpoint, a morally right action is one that produces a good outcome, or consequence.
Deontological ethics is commonly contrasted with consequentialist or teleological ethical theories, according to which the rightness of an action is determined by its consequences.
Virtue theory is a branch of moral philosophy that emphasizes character, rather than rules or consequences, as the key element of ethical thinking. Virtue ethics focuses on the character of the agent rather than on the nature or consequences of the action itself.
-------------------------------------------------------
For example, a consequentialist may argue that lying is wrong because of the negative consequences produced by lying — though a consequentialist may allow that certain foreseeable consequences might make lying acceptable. A deontologist might argue that lying is always wrong, regardless of any potential "good" that might come from lying. A virtue ethicist, however, would focus less on lying in any particular instance and instead consider what a decision to tell a lie or not tell a lie said about one's character.
Please vote which moral inclinations best describe you? :)
PS: Moderator, not sure if you would deem this to be in the right forum, but pls keep this in grassroot central for some time for me to take my polls. There might be something interesting to explore here. Thank you.