Ethics (presentation adapted from Prof. J. Christman’s and A. Lau’s Workshop on Ethics)Definition of EthicsThinking EthicallyEthical FrameworksConsequence-basedConsequence-based (cont’d)Duty-basedDuty-based (cont’d)Virtue-basedSlide 10Overarching Rule of ThumbGeneral Guide to Ethical ThinkingEthics(presentation adapted from Prof. J. Christman’s and A. Lau’s Workshop on Ethics)Our goal: systematic approachDefinitionEthical FrameworksDefinition of Ethics•“Positive guidelines we use to shape our behavior, and the systematic study of these guidelines”•More than just–being prudent out of self interest–following the letter of the law–abiding by professional codes of conductThinking Ethically•Foreseeing and averting problems•Becoming ethically aware•Developing moral imagination–Maximalist always looking for ethical problems–Minimalist looks only for minimal criteria to signal an ethical problem–Finding the right balanceEthical Frameworks•Consequence-based thinking•Duty-based thinking•Virtue-based thinkingConsequence-based•Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill•Utilitarian•Do what produces greatest good for the greatest number of people–Monetary costs and benefits–Human welfare–Pleasure or happinessConsequence-based (cont’d)•Limitations:–Difficult to predict consequences–Can end up reducing ethics to economics–Differing views of what makes people happy–Ends do not justify the means if the means are morally unacceptable–Formally, this theory does not pertain to non-human lifeDuty-based•Emmanuel Kant •Categorical imperative (do only that which you would want everyone to do)•“What if everyone did this?” (Golden Rule)•Duty to obey universal principles–e.g., never lie or steal•The right to be treated with respect•NO EXCEPTIONSDuty-based (cont’d)•Limitations:–Requires everyone to be a perfect reasoner–Does not allow for situational exceptions–Sometimes, consequences do matter and may override our duty–Formally, this theory does not pertain to non-human lifeVirtue-based•What would a person of “good moral character” do?•Exercise appropriate virtue in every case–e.g. honesty, respect, generosity•Must use judgment to determine applicable virtue (as opposed to ethical rules)Virtue-based•Limitations:–Virtues may be defined too loosely to guide decisions in difficult cases–Virtues may be defined in terms of social setting or culture, making morality relativistic–Formally, this theory does not pertain to non-human lifeOverarching Rule of Thumb•Shorthand Principle that combines all 3 moral frameworks:Can I reasonably justify my actions and their consequences to all affected in a way that is consistent with my integrity and my relations with others?If not, can I live with that?General Guide to Ethical ThinkingThinking/ActingEthicallyuse moralimaginationgather factsformulate options(creatively)consider consequences-identify optimal optionidentifyrelevantdutieswhat virtuesapply?how will relationsbe affected?consult othersreflect, choose,revisit decisionAm I missing something?Think through ethical frameworks carefullyRedo other stepsEngage stakeholders-- as