essay 1-2 pages

The Three Major Ethical Theories:

Consequentialism evaluates actions in terms of consequences: How much “good” or “harm” will an action cause? (Consequences are paramount.)

Deontology asserts that moral action is the “right” thing to do. One must always do one’s duty, irrespective of the consequences. (Actions are paramount.)

Virtue Ethics emphasizes the character of the person. (Aristotle’s “virtues” include honesty, courage, temperance, friendship, etc.)

Approaches to Ethics From: “A Framework for Thinking Ethically”

The Utilitarian Approach (Consequentialism) The ethical action is the one that provides the most good or does the least harm. Or the action that produces the greatest balance of good over harm.  

The Common Good Approach (Consequentialism) Ethical actions must focus on the common conditions that are important to the welfare of everyone in our society

The Fairness or Justice Approach (Deontology) Ethical actions treat all human beings equally—or if unequally, then fairly, based on some standard that is defensible.  

The Rights Approach (Deontology) The ethical action is the one that best protects and respects the moral rights of those affected. …. Rights imply duties: e.g., the duty to respect others' rights.

The Virtue Approach (Virtue Ethics) Emphasizes the character of an individual. Honesty, courage, compassion, generosity, tolerance, and fairness are examples of virtues. Virtue ethics asks: “What would a ‘virtuous’ person do?”