Summary of Ethical Theories MLS 506 Social Ethical
- Slides: 8
Summary of Ethical Theories MLS 506: Social & Ethical Responsibilities Of Management North Central College, Summer 2005
Summary of Ethical Theories l Utilitarianism l Right and rights l Distributive justice theories l Virtue/character l Conclusions
Utilitarianism l Greatest good (or least evil) for all individuals effected by action decision in the long run. l Focus on future results of action for group, not special obligations, previous promises or debts, or rights of individuals. l Results measured in +/- terms.
Right and Rights l Some actions are right (morally correct) based on intent of agent and/or principle of action (such as respecting equal dignity of persons). l Individuals have a moral right to be treated in certain ways (i. e. with respect) or not treated in certain ways (i. e. lied to).
Justice l Material principles of distributive justice (equality, contribution, need/ability, merit, liberty, fairness) determine whether a proposed distribution of benefits or burdens is just. l Distributive justice is primarily a quality of institutions and policies rather than individual action decisions.
Virtue/Character l Virtues of character, developed by practice over time, enable individuals to achieve excellence within a practice, and – taken together – promote excellence in life. l A virtue perspective is useful for evaluation of a practice or corporate culture: what kinds of persons does this culture produce and reward?
Conclusion l Each theory combines insight and limitations. l Utilitarianism works well in determining action in crisis situations, but tends to ignore individual needs in the name of group welfare. l An ethic of right provides clear answers for complex questions, but tends to ignore consequences in the name of rules.
Conclusion l Distributive justice theories focus attention on uneven costs and benefit distribution but tend to ignore utility. l Virtue theories focus on how institutions and practices create certain character types, but in ways difficult to apply to specific action choices.
