THOUGHTS
AND IDEOLOGIES BEHIND ETHICS
THEORIES
AND APPROACHES ON ETHICS
Utilitarian Theory
This theory is based on the ideology that,
as part of society, do maximum good to others; or at least abstain from
disturbing others. Under this approach people follow ethics, to make the most
good and least harm to others.
As per this theory utility of a human
being is determined on the basis of how much he is useful or harmful to
society. As part of our social life we can live by giving maximum good to
others. Or at least we can keep away from creating problems or disturbance to
others. This feeling or approach is known as Utilitarian Approach.
Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that
determines right from wrong by focusing on outcomes. It means that, the act of
one is determined as ethical or unethical, on the basis of outcome it produces.
It is a form of consequentialism. Utilitarianism holds that the most ethical
choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number.
It is the only moral framework that can be used to justify military force or
war. It is also the most common approach to moral reasoning used in business in
times of ethical dilemma.
Deontological Theory
The ideology behind this theory is this:
we have duty to respect others; or people have the right to get respect. Here
we believe that our ethics are the rights of others. This theory explains our moral duties and obligations. This
theory tries to find out some dignity in others and believe that they have a
right to get respect. Thus, it becomes our duty to do such a good practice.
Fairness/Justice Theory
The ideology behind this theory is: we
should always be fair and unbiased. As per this approach we follow
ethics as we want to be equal to all. This approach is based on the Greek
philosophy that we must give equal treatment to all. All persons are equal and
all should be equally respected.
The justice theory was derived from rights
theory. In this sense, Equal justice is also the right of humans. Fairness and
justice theory believes that ethics should be followed to ensure justice and
equality.
Common Good Theory
As per this approach, we follow ethics for
the welfare of everyone in the society. The ideology is the social welfare.
This approach is also known as social welfare approach. We cannot ensure
welfare of society through unethical practices. We believe that only ethical
practice can bring human welfare. So, we should follow ethics.
Virtue Theory
As per this theory, ethics is followed by
many as a habit and with an intention to develop personality. The ideology
behind this theory is: be good human beings with good personality.
We know that good people follow values in
life. These are virtues of human beings. To be good people with good
personality we must follow ethics.
Virtue ethics are normative ethical
theories which emphasize virtues of mind, character and also the sense of
honesty. Thus virtue theory states that virtues are formed in the minds of
people and as a consequence, people behave accordingly.