Ethical Theories of Western Philosophical Thought

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nEthical theories are the basics of ethical analysis since they produce guidance where decisions can be made. Every type of ethical theory focuses on various points of expecting a particular outcome aimed at making ethically correct decision. There are three main types of ethical theory. These include utilitarianism, deontology and virtue ethics (Mosser, 2013).

nDeontology means duty or responsibility, which is the first approach in ethical decision. In addition, this theory suggests that the act of correctness or virtuousness depends on the rightness or badness of their outcome (Mosser, 2013). Therefore, individuals should adhere to their duties or obligations in circumstance that demands their analysis of ethical dilemma. In this regard, ethically correct decision occur when an individual adhere to his/her duties or obligations to the society, organisation or other people (Mosser, 2013).

nSecondly, utilitarianism theory assesses the act of morality with regard to its consequences. This theory focuses on the actions individual choses to do. It offers the greatest value to alternative actions that produces the highest good for highest number of individuals affected. Therefore, this theory suggests that the end justifies the means because the moral worth of an action depends on the outcome. In addition, utilitarianism is developed on the ability to foresee the outcomes of an action (Mosser, 2013). Further, in utilitarian doctrine, the choice that produces greatest value to high number of people is ethically correct.

nThirdly, virtue theory focuses on a character of an individual rather than outcomes or obligations as core values to ethical thinking. Therefore, the theory suggests that an individual should be judged on his/her characters rather than by actions. Hence, individual who have undesired characters are considered ethically bad. Each of the three theories presents various drawbacks hence no theory that is better than the other is (Mosser, 2013). In addition, when making ethical decisions people should not prefer one theory to the other.

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nMosser K. (2013). Ethics and Social Responsibility (2nd Ed.). Bridgepoint Education

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