Branches of Ethics Schools of Ethics l Metaethics

Branches of Ethics

Schools of Ethics l Meta-ethics – l Normative ethics – l Study of moral duties, rules within its social context Applied ethics – l Study of the meaning of ethics Application of ethical principles Professional ethics – Applied ethics as it relates to criminal justice professionals

Meta-ethics l l Investigates where our ethical principles come from, and what they mean. Are they merely social inventions? Seeks to understand the nature of ethical evaluations or moral statements. – – – l How if at all do we know if something is good How do moral attitudes motivate actions How do we know what is right or wrong Example: Thomas Hobbes – The truth of mankind ideas can be gauged only by selfexamination, by looking into our selves to judge our behaviors, thoughts and passions, which is the basis of all actions.

Normative ethics l l Branch of philosophical ethics which classifies actions as right or wrong. Takes on a more practical task, to arrive at moral standards that regulate right and wrong conduct. This may involve articulating the good habits that we should acquire, the duties that we should follow, or the consequences of our behavior on others. Attempts to develop a set of rules governing human conduct. What is the right or wrong thing to do. What is acceptable behavior within any given social context.

Applied Ethics l l Involves examining specific controversial issues, such as gun control, animal rights, environmental concerns, homosexuality, capital punishment, or nuclear war. Practical application of normative rules – – – Morality applied to behavior, social interactions Enforcement of rules, regulations or laws on behavior Review of ethical dilemmas as it relates to behavior

Professional Ethics l Contextual framing of a set of standards regulating behaviors of specific professions, groups or associations. – – – Business Criminal justice Education Non-profits Medical