The study of morality, right and wrong. It investigates what is morally acceptable and unacceptable, and creates principles to guide our actions in different situations.
Ethical Theory
Attempts to provide a clear, unified account of what our ethical obligations are. They are attempts to tell a single "story" about what we are obligated to do, without referring directly to specific examples.
Different types of ethical theories
Utilitarianism
Virtue
Kantianism
Care ethics
Egoism
Contract theory
Deontology
Consequentialism
Natural law
Utilitarianism
A consequential ethical theory that holds the view that the best action to be undertaken is the one that maximizes overall happiness or quality of life. An act's morality depends on its outcomes.
Virtue
Moral qualities or attributes that are considered to be good, ethical or desirable in a human being. Implies the observance of morality and integrity ideals.
Kantianism
A philosophical and ethical system derived from the 18th century German philosopher Immanuel Kant's thought. A cornerstone is the idea of categorical imperative, a moral principle with universal and unconditional applicability.
Care ethics
A way of thinking about what is right and wrong that focuses on the importance of caring for others and building relationships, rather than using abstract principles or rules.
Egoism
A belief that people should act in their own best interests, emphasizing that everyone's primary goal should be to maximize their own well-being and happiness.
Contract theory
A field of study that examines how people and businesses create agreements (contracts) and make choices when there is uncertainty and missing information.
Deontology
A duty-based approach that holds that right and wrong are determined by rules or principles, not by the results of actions. It stresses the inherent goodness or badness of specific actions and the moral requirement to adhere to established principles.
Consequentialism
A belief system that values the outcome of an action as the primary determinant of its moral worthiness. It assesses the action's impact on the overall well-being it generates.
Natural law
A concept that proposes there are fundamental rules that control human conduct, morals, and fairness, rooted in the nature of the world and can be discovered through intelligence and studying the environment.
Principle of ethics
Part of a normative theory that justifies or defends moral rules and/or moral judgments; they are not dependent on one's subjective viewpoints.
Beneficence
Doing what's best for others, being kind and helpful, and always trying to make things better for them.
Confidentiality
Keeping information secret and preventing unauthorized access, an important principle that protects privacy and maintains trust.
Compassion
A profound realization of and empathy toward someone's pain, along with a desire to reduce it. It encompasses the capacity to comprehend and resonate with the emotions of others, as well as a caring response to their adversity.
Justice
Treating people fairly and impartially, giving them what they deserve and what is morally right, ensuring equal access to rights, resources, chances, and punishments.
Informed consent
An essential ethical and legal practice involving providing individuals with all the necessary information about a proposed medical procedure, treatment, or research study, and obtaining their agreement to participate.
Autonomy
Individuals can make their own choices and live their lives without others telling them what to do, having their own thoughts, beliefs, and desires and the ability to act on them.
Accountability
Being responsible for your actions and choices, accepting that you'll be held answerable for the results of your behavior.
Transparency
The state of being open, straightforward, and comprehensible, sharing information, actions, or choices with those who have a stake in them.
Code of ethics
A guide of principles designed to help professionals conduct business honestly and with integrity, outlining the mission, values, ethical principles, and standards to which the professional is held.
Respect
Treating yourself and others with consideration and valuing their thoughts, feelings, and well-being, acknowledging that everyone has value and dignity.
Loyalty
A deep sense of dedication and commitment to someone or something, being faithful, loyal, and devoted, especially during difficult times.
Honesty
Being truthful, sincere, and avoiding deception or dishonesty, communicating and acting openly and directly, sharing information accurately and avoiding deliberately misleading others.
Professional
Individuals who pursue a specific career or area of expertise, demonstrating skill, knowledge, and integrity in their work, adhering to professional standards, ethics, and regulations.
Integrity
The unwavering trait of being truthful, ethical, and morally upright, the harmony between one's beliefs, words, and deeds, adhering to principles of honesty, fairness, and truthfulness.
Compliance
Following the rules and standards made by a higher authority, like a government or governing body, doing what is expected and making sure individuals and groups stay within the legal and ethical limits that have been set.
Reliability
Taking responsibility for actions, ensuring maximum accuracy and reliability in the entire production process and service, using cutting-edge innovation and research while respecting the environment and safety.
Avoidharm
Acting with the intention of preventing harm to others, a core ethical principle that guides decision-making in all areas of life.
Ethical Theories are important because they provide a clear, unified account of what our ethical obligations are and help us understand what we are obligated to do.
CodesandPrinciplesofEthics are important in a professional setting because they help guide professionals to conduct business honestly and with integrity, outlining the mission, values, ethical principles, and standards to which they are held.