Introduction to Moral Philosophy
Ethics isn't just a set of rules
found in textbooks; it is about the character of a person.
When we call someone "ethical," we usually mean they are honest,
fair, or kind. These aren't just one-time actions; they are qualities that
define who they are.
1. The Meaning of
"Ethos"
The word Ethics comes
from the Greek word ethos, meaning character, custom, or habit. It
describes our "moral fiber." Ethics focuses on forming a steady
disposition to do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
2. Character vs. Action
Returning a lost wallet because of a
rule is a moral act. Returning it because you value honesty
is ethical character. Ethics is about consistency. It’s the
difference between a doctor who saves lives for fame and one who does it out of
genuine compassion. The outward act is the same, but the internal motive
defines the ethical value.
The Origins: Ethics and
Morality
While used interchangeably, these
terms have different roots:
·
Ethics (Greek Ethos): Focuses
on the inner life—character and "Why" we act. It is the science of
character.
·
Morality (Latin Moralis): Focuses
on "Mores" or customs. It is the practice of how we
behave based on social norms.
The Difference: Morality
might say, "It is our custom to do X." Ethics asks, "Is X
actually just?" Ethics critiques and guides morality using reason.
Defining Ethics as a
Science
Ethics is the systematic
study of human conduct regarding right and wrong. It is a
"science" because it uses logic and reflection rather than just
feelings. It focuses on four key areas:
1.
Human Actions: What
we do and why.
2.
Moral Evaluation: Judging
if an act is right or wrong.
3.
Moral Consciousness: Our
inner awareness of value (guilt or satisfaction).
4.
Freedom: We
are only responsible for acts we choose freely.
Moral vs. Non-Moral Acts
Not every movement a human makes is
an ethical one. For an act to be Moral, it must meet three
conditions:
1.
Consciousness: You
must know what you are doing.
2.
Freedom: You
must act without being forced.
3.
Intention: You
must have a motive or purpose.
Non-Moral Acts are
things like breathing, blinking, or accidental slips. Because they lack intent
or choice, they cannot be judged as "good" or "evil."
Ethics only begins where choice starts.
PPT:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hOgsSP1s8cUQ-iUoi04PWdxt7cog1eaA/view?usp=sharing
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