Now that you have learned about competing ethical theories, write a thread that compares and contrasts a Christian ethical theory with a competing ethical theory. Since we have already looked at ethical relativism in Discussion: Relativism vs Absolutism, you may choose from any metaethical theory covered in Moral Choices or Talking About Ethics except ethical relativism. That means you can choose from Virtue Ethics, Natural Law, Ethical Egoism, Utilitarianism, and Duty Ethics in contrast to a Christian ethical theory.
How does each system define “the good?” How does each claim to know “the good?”
What, if anything, do these systems have in common? What, if anything, are their key differences?
Which theory do you think is the stronger ethical theory? Defend your answer. This final question should take up the majority of your thread.
Be sure to carefully define your terms, articulate the strengths and weaknesses of each theory, and defend your position. You are expected to support your position with rational arguments, fitting examples, and expert sources.
Full Answer Section
Claiming Moral Knowledge:
- Christian Ethics: Knowledge of the good stems from faith in God's authority and the revealed truths expressed in scripture. Moral principles are considered absolute and unchanging, providing clear guidance for navigating ethical dilemmas.
- Virtue Ethics: Moral knowledge emerges from practical experience and reflection. By observing virtuous individuals and considering the consequences of actions in specific contexts, one develops an intuitive grasp of what constitutes the good in each situation.
Common Ground:
Both systems find common ground in emphasizing the importance of character and its role in ethical decision-making. Cultivating good character, whether through adherence to divine laws or internal virtuous dispositions, leads to morally sound actions that benefit individuals and communities.
Key Differences:
However, their diverging definitions of the good and bases for moral knowledge create critical distinctions:
- Universality vs. Context: Christian ethics tends towards a universal application of principles, while virtue ethics emphasizes the importance of considering specific contexts and relationships.
- Internal vs. External: Christian ethics relies on external rules and divine authority, while virtue ethics focuses on internal development and personal responsibility.
- Static vs. Dynamic: Christian ethics often portrays moral principles as unchanging, while virtue ethics recognizes the need for adapting moral judgments to evolving contexts and challenges.
The Debate of Strength:
Determining the "stronger" ethical theory becomes a subjective endeavor, hinging on one's personal values and worldview. Here's why I find virtue ethics to be a more robust framework for navigating contemporary ethical dilemmas:
- Adaptability: In our increasingly complex world, rigid rules struggle to address nuanced situations. Virtue ethics, with its emphasis on context and individual understanding, provides a more flexible approach.
- Focus on Character: Cultivating virtues equips individuals with the moral compass to navigate diverse situations beyond predefined rules, fostering personal autonomy and ethical growth.
- Emphasis on Flourishing: By prioritizing both individual and communal well-being, virtue ethics promotes a flourishing society where individuals' pursuit of the good contributes to the good of all.
Christian ethics, with its rich tradition and emphasis on divine guidance, remains a powerful source of moral wisdom. However, in my view, virtue ethics offers a more dynamic and nuanced framework for grappling with the ethical complexities of our contemporary world. By focusing on developing good character and adapting to context, virtue ethics empowers individuals to navigate ethical challenges with a sense of personal responsibility and contribute to a flourishing society where the good is not a fixed destination but a journey of continuous learning and growth.
While this is my perspective, the beauty of ethical discourse lies in its openness to dialogue and critical reflection. I encourage you to explore these diverse ethical frameworks and reach your own conclusions about which one resonates most deeply with your understanding of "the good."
Remember, ethical theories are not mutually exclusive but offer complementary lenses through which we can examine our actions and strive to live good lives. By engaging in thoughtful comparison and analysis, we can refine our own ethical compass and contribute to a more just and flourishing world.
Sample Answer
Virtue Ethics vs. Christian Ethics: A Comparative Journey in Defining the Good
In the vast philosophical landscape, various ethical theories vie for dominance, each offering unique perspectives on navigating "the good" in our actions. Today, we'll embark on a comparative journey, juxtaposing Christian ethics with the ancient wisdom of virtue ethics. Both delve into the realm of character and intention, but their paths diverge when it comes to defining the good and grounding their claims to moral knowledge.
Defining the Good:
- Christian Ethics: Rooted in divine revelation, Christian ethics posits that God, as the ultimate good, establishes moral laws (e.g., Ten Commandments) through scripture and tradition. Actions aligned with these laws and God's will are deemed good, while those contravening them are considered bad.
- Virtue Ethics: Instead of external rules, virtue ethics focuses on internal character traits (e.g., courage, honesty, compassion) as the foundation of ethical behavior. Living virtuously, by cultivating and exercising these traits, ultimately leads to actions that benefit both oneself and the community, thus constituting the good.