Summary of Ethics and Democratic Values

Goals

1. Recognize the importance of ethics in creating a democratic society.

2. Differentiate between the concepts of ethics in ancient times and today.

3. Reflect on real-world examples of ethical application in modern society.

4. Enhance critical thinking and argumentative skills regarding ethical issues.

Contextualization

In today’s society, ethics and democratic values are essential for fostering peaceful and just coexistence. Ethics shape our actions and decisions, while democratic values promote equal participation for all citizens. For example, numerous organizations in Canada establish codes of ethics to direct employee conduct, thereby maintaining trust with customers and partners. In sectors such as technology, ethical considerations are crucial when addressing privacy concerns and the responsible management of data.

Subject Relevance

To Remember!

Concept of Ethics in Ancient Times

In ancient times, philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle extensively discussed ethics. For them, ethics was fundamentally connected to the pursuit of virtue and the common good. It was perceived as a framework of principles that guided societal interactions, promoting justice and social harmony.

• Ancient ethics centred on virtue and individual morality.

• Philosophers aimed to define what constituted a good and just life.

• Ethics was deemed crucial for harmonious life in the polis (city-state).

Concept of Ethics in Modernity

In the modern era, ethics started to be viewed through a more individualistic and rational lens. Thinkers such as Immanuel Kant and John Stuart Mill advanced ethical theories based on reasoning and utility. Modern ethics emphasizes personal autonomy and the ability to make moral choices grounded in universal principles or the maximization of collective well-being.

• Modern ethics highlights personal autonomy and rational thinking.

• Kant proposed deontological ethics, which focuses on duties and universal principles.

• John Stuart Mill advocated for utilitarianism, aimed at maximizing collective well-being.

Relationship Between Ethics and Democratic Values

Ethics and democratic values are closely interconnected, as both aim to foster justice, equality, and the active participation of citizens. A democratic society thrives on ethical citizens who respect the rights of others and make choices based on moral values. Ethics underpins democratic coexistence, steering the actions and decisions of individuals and organizations.

• Ethics supports democratic values such as freedom and equality.

• Ethical citizens are crucial for sustaining a vibrant democracy.

• Ethics shapes the actions and decisions of individuals and institutions within a democratic framework.

Practical Applications

• Organizations that adopt codes of ethics to direct employee conduct, ensuring transparent and fair business practices.

• The integration of artificial intelligence in hiring processes, where ethical considerations are necessary to prevent discrimination and promote equity.

• Governments that formulate public policies grounded in ethical principles to advance social justice and equality.

Key Terms

• Ethics: A set of moral principles guiding human behaviour.

• Democratic Values: Principles ensuring equal participation of all citizens within society.

• Virtue: A moral quality fostering character excellence and the common good.

• Utilitarianism: An ethical theory focusing on maximizing collective welfare.

• Deontology: An ethical approach based on duties and universal principles.

Questions for Reflections

• How can ancient and modern ethical concepts be applied in everyday circumstances?

• What ethical challenges could arise in your future profession, and how do you intend to address them?

• How can ethics contribute to the development of a more just and democratic society?

Practical Challenge: Applying Ethics in Daily Life

This mini-challenge aims to reinforce the understanding of ethics and democratic values by applying them to practical, everyday scenarios.

Instructions

• Select one of the ethical dilemmas discussed in class (for example, the role of artificial intelligence in hiring decisions).

• Write a 150-200 word response detailing how you would approach and resolve this ethical dilemma, considering both ancient and modern ethical frameworks.

• Share your piece with a classmate and discuss the diverse approaches and solutions proposed.

• Collaboratively work towards a unified solution that harmonizes ethical principles and democratic values.