Ethics and Morality: Principles and Philosophical Traditions

Ethics: Definition and Etymology

Ethics originates from the Greek ethos, referring to character and various aspects of decision-making and responsibility. It is a branch of philosophy that determines the concept of good and evil within specific cultural contexts to improve practical existence. Ethics analyzes the moral life of humans, teaching how to live well and focusing on preferences. It justifies our actions, choices, and behavior, underlying our morality. In essence, ethics and moral philosophy examine human life situations, justify human choices, forge character, and provide living standards.

Morality: Definition and Etymology

The word moral has its roots in the Latin word mos, meaning 'custom' or 'usual'. The moral universe is defined by the criteria and rules we use to live. Morality typically follows ethics.

Ethics vs. Morality

While ethics provides the theoretical framework, morality is the practical application of these principles in daily life.

Philosophical Traditions

Aristotelian Ethics

Aristotelian ethics proposes supreme happiness as the product of rational activity, achieved by reaching one's goals. It is a teleological ethic (from the Greek telos, meaning 'end' or 'goal').

• Achieving a goal leads to momentary happiness due to success.
• Perpetual happiness is the ultimate aim.

Example: In the movie Citizen Kane, the urge to acquire material possessions leads to a false identity and ultimately unhappiness.

Reason, using wisdom and virtue, helps us analyze consequences, order preferences, and determine actions. Prudence, a fruit of reason, teaches virtue, which resides in the middle ground. Irrationality is shown through intensity, while prudence involves measured and thoughtful action, often with symmetry. Key followers include Saint Thomas Aquinas and John Stuart Mill.

Kantian Ethics

According to the German philosopher Immanuel Kant, happiness often conflicts with moral duty. Morality is not about what makes us happy, pleasant, or useful; it is something higher and universal.

• If we are led by instincts and inclinations, we are not free and lack autonomy of reason.
• Kantian ethics is deontological (from the Greek deon, meaning 'duty', and logos, meaning 'reason'). It emphasizes universally valid duties.

Correct moral action is duty performed for its own sake, not for material reasons. A good action is not good because it meets expectations but because it aligns with a general will that all share.