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Ethical Approaches An Overview of: (1)Consequential, (2) Nonconsequential, and (3) Virtue Ethics Theories What is Ethics? Ethics is the study of those values that relate to our moral conduct, including questions of good and evil, right and wrong, and moral responsibility. Consequentialist Theoretical Approach: -Consequentialist theories claim that the morality of an action depends only on its consequences. -It only considers the result of actions and not principles or rules in determining morality. 1 Three (3) Types of Consequentialist Theories: -Ethical Egoism argues that each person should act in his/her own self-interest. -Act Utilitarianism argues that each person should act in a way that produces the greatest happiness for everyone. -Rule Utilitarianism argues that each person should follow rules that tend to produce the greatest happiness for everyone.

Weaknesses of Consequentialist Theories -Requires person to predict the future and all possible outcomes. -Can easily be used to justify questionable actions (the ends justifies the means). 2 Nonconsequentialist Theoretical Approach: Nonconsequentialist theories claim that the morality of an action depends on principles or other factors that are not related to consequences. Two (2) Types of Nonconsequentialist Theories: -Divine command theory argues that we should obey the laws of God. -Kant’s Categorical Imperative states that we should always act in a way that is based on reason, duty, and would be considered ethical if everyone acted in the exact same way. Also, people should be treated as an end and not as a means.

Weaknesses of Nonconsequentialist Theories: Self-Challenge Question: Question: What might prove a problem in a country so diverse as the U.S. with regards to Nonconsequentialist theories? When you are ready check the expert’s response. 3 Virtue Ethics Theoretical Approach: -Virtue ethics seeks to identify character traits of a moral person and develop those with the idea that the virtuous person will act in a virtuous manner. It does not look to principles or consequences. -Virtue ethics was developed among the ancient Greek philosophers such as Aristotle and the Chinese teacher and philosopher Confucius. -Virtue ethics enjoys modern support as an approach that avoids many of the problems with Consequential and Nonconsequential ethical theories.

Weaknesses of Virtue Theory -Difficulty in determining just which characteristics are virtues -Justification for respecting a virtue usually brings one back to either consequences or principles. -Difficulty in applying it to specific situations 4 Example of all Three Theoretical Ethical Approaches: Scenario: The air quality in a particular city Y is so polluted, people are getting physically ill and are on antibiotics (for those that can afford it). People have taken to wearing masks when out of their homes. Children attend school with masks on. The rulers however live at a higher altitude where the pollution does not penetrate as readily. Thus the rulers themselves are not sick form the pollution.

However, scientists have corroborated that the predominant causes of the air pollution in the country are leaded gasoline and coal fire power plants. Here are examples of applying the three theoretical ethical approaches to the same scenario to support a person’s recommendations. A leading executive council member addresses the Prime Minister and other council members with the following recommendation: Proposed changes: Since there are sufficient alternatives to leaded gasoline, (1) we should immediately enact legislation that will make it illegal to sell leaded gasoline and (2) we should also state that all coal- fired power plants must put scrubbers on their smoke stacks until alternative forms of energy can be mandated to be substituted.

Virtue Ethics: These proposed changes are important because this would demonstrate the virtue of compassion for our citizens and their health concerns, as well as showing courage in facing these problems. It may take a long time to reverse the damage to our environment, but small steps are better than none at all. Consequentialist Theoretical Approaches: 5 Ethical Egoism: You state that you have been feeling ill lately when you enter the city, and you will feel much better if these changes are implemented. Act Utilitarianism: You state that these changes will make everyone happier since they will not be as sick, and maybe the children can attend school without masks. Rule Utilitarianism: You state that the law of the land says that the council should rule in the best interests of the entire populace.

Clearly, this is in the best interests of the citizens. Nonconsequentialist Theoretical Approaches: Divine command theory: You support the changes citing the golden rule, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Kant’s Categorical Imperative: You support the changes on the grounds that it is the council members’ duty to attend to the greater welfare of the people and these are reasonable actions in light of the circumstances. Challenge Question 2: What might you conclude from this presentation regarding the three ethical approaches presented? See the next page for the expert’s response.

6 Conclusion: Question: What might you conclude from this? Expert’s Response: -One theory or approach is not enough to cover all possible choices. -Theories can be synthesized to fit one’s philosophy of life. -One approach or theory’s weakness is another’s strength. 7 Culturally Responsive and Individually Appropriate Curriculum Assessment and Interview Form Name and Type of Program: Ages of Children Served: Before you begin, thank the professional and provide a brief overview of your assignment. Part 1: Observation For each of the following factors, indicate supporting evidence in the right-hand column. If absent, please indicate.

Add the two factors you have chosen at the bottom of the chart. Note: It may be difficult to observe all of the factors below in the short amount of time you will be in this setting. If you do not see any of the factors below, make a note to ask the teacher in your interview about whether they are a part of the program. Your interview should provide you with much more information to round out your view of the ways in which this program is culturally responsive and individually appropriate. Factor* Evidence Pictures, posters, and other materials reflect the cultures and ethnic backgrounds of children and families served in the program or setting Pictures, posters, and other materials reflect children and adults with varying abilities in natural situations Props for the dramatic play/housekeeping area are culturally diverse and authentic (e.g. dolls, clothing, cooking utensils, household articles, furniture) The book/literacy area has photographs, fiction, and nonfiction books that reflect the different cultures and abilities of children and families served in the program or setting Table-top toys and other play accessories that depict people are representative of the various cultural and ethnic groups both within community and the society in general Teachers share unbiased books that expose children to various life experiences of cultures, ethnic groups, and varying abilities other than their own Meals provided include foods that are unique to the cultural and ethnic backgrounds of children and families served in the program or setting If the program or setting consists entirely of children and families from the same cultural or ethnic group, the environment and activities reflect the cultural diversity within the society at large If program or setting consists entirely of children and families who have little variance in abilities, environment including books, posters, etc. reflect varying abilities within the society at large A variety of choices are provided based on children’s interests and capabilities Objects in and areas of the environment are accessible to all children regardless of ability, needs, or background The curriculum provides children with many options to communicate knowledge and skills participation supported through each child’s preferred mode of communication Participation is supported through each child’s preferred mode of communication Activities are presented in a manner that supports full participation of all children [The additional factor that you have chosen to observe] [The additional factor that you have chosen to observe] Part 2: Questions for the Professional Professional’s Role in Program: Interview Questions: 1.

What do the terms culturally responsive and individually appropriate mean to you? 2. In what ways do you work to support the development and learning of every child in your classroom? 3. What specific policies or practices do you use to make sure that every child feels valued and is included in your environment?

Are there specifics you would like to share that pertain specifically to policies and practices with regard to children and families who are culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse? 4. What do you see as benefits and challenges associated with planning, implementing, and assessing a culturally responsive, individually appropriate curriculum? 5. Are there any experiences and/or insights you would like to share regarding culturally responsive and individually appropriate curriculum?

Ways you have grown? Challenges you have overcome? Biases that have impacted you? Stories you would like to tell that have made your work rewarding? *Factors in observation form adapted from Darragh, J. (2010). Introduction to early childhood education: Equity and inclusion .

Upper Saddle Ridge, NJ: Pearson Goode, T. (2009). Promoting cultural & linguistic competency [Checklist]. Retrieved from © Laureate Education, Inc Checklist: View the presentation on ethics. Explain what decision you would have made in Sam Trudeau’s place by specifically addressing all 5 of the ethical decision-making steps (Ulys & Harty, n.d.). For Step 1.

Identify what the ethical issues are in the scenario or situation: Make sure to consider all ethical implications inside and outside of the business. For Step 2. Get information and consider all the persons impacted in the situation: Make sure to explain the different ways in which different stakeholders might be impacted. For step 3. Examine alternatives: Make sure to address at least 3 possible alternatives based on (a) Consequentialist approaches (choose one: ethical egoism, act utilitarianism, or rule utilitarianism), (b) Non-Consequentialist approaches (choose one: divine command or categorical imperative), and (c) Virtue Ethics.

You should therefore present a total of 3 viewpoints concerning the scenario above. For Step 4. Determine the best decision based on your approach, and act: Make it clear why you selected the approach you did by noting ways in which it is superior to the other two that you examined in Step 3. If your approach has any weaknesses, identify those as well. For Step 5.

Evaluate the decision and results: Make it clear how the final decision impacts all involved and implications it has for future business. Access the Unit 9 Journal rubric. Your Journal entry should be composed in a Word document and submitted to the Journal Dropbox. Your entry should be a minimum of 250 words, double-spaced, in Times New Roman 12-point font with an additional title page. Reference Uys, K.

H. & Harty, M. (n.d.). Ethical decision-making. University of Pretoria. Retrieved from /aacconference2ndregional/yellowwoodvenue/ethicaldecisionmakingaacconf.pdf

Paper for above instructions

Ethical Approaches: An Overview of Consequential, Nonconsequential, and Virtue Ethics Theories

What is Ethics?

Ethics is the systematic study of values that relate to moral conduct, inclusive of inquiries concerning good and evil, right and wrong, and moral responsibility (Gert et al., 2017). The exploration of ethics informs individuals about their beliefs and behaviors, shaping societal norms and laws.

1. Consequentialist Theoretical Approach

Consequentialism posits that the morality of an action is entirely dependent on its outcomes (Sinnott-Armstrong, 2019). Consequently, this theory is solely concerned with the results of actions, disregarding the inherent morality of the actions themselves.
##### Types of Consequentialist Theories
- Ethical Egoism asserts that actions should be undertaken in one's self-interest. This theory encourages individualistic behavior as a moral duty. For instance, a person may justify harmful decisions if they believe those decisions benefit their own welfare (Rachels & Rachels, 2015).
- Act Utilitarianism advocates for actions that produce the highest net happiness for the greatest number of people. This framework focuses on assessing situations based on immediate consequences (Mill, 2001).
- Rule Utilitarianism supports adhering to rules that generate the maximum happiness when consistently followed. This theory blends consequentialism with rule-based decision-making, as it emphasizes ethical norms that generally lead to beneficial outcomes (Sullivan, 2016).
##### Weaknesses of Consequentialist Theories
A notable weakness of consequentialism lies in its requirement for accurate prediction of future outcomes, which can be highly uncertain. Furthermore, it risks justifying morally questionable actions by allowing harmful means if they lead to beneficial ends (Portmore, 2013).

2. Nonconsequentialist Theoretical Approach

Nonconsequentialism diverges from consequentialist theory, asserting that the morality of an action is derived from principles that are independent of outcomes (Shafer-Landau, 2015).
##### Types of Nonconsequentialist Theories
- Divine Command Theory states that moral obligations derive from divine commands; to act morally is to follow the will of God. This perspective can create ethical dilemmas in pluralistic societies where diverse beliefs coexist (Adams, 2019).
- Kant’s Categorical Imperative suggests that individuals should act according to maxims that can be universally applied. It emphasizes duty and respect for entities as ends rather than means, opposing exploitation (Kant, 2002).
##### Weaknesses of Nonconsequentialist Theories
In a diverse society like the U.S., nonconsequentialist theories may pose challenges. Different cultural interpretations can lead to conflicts over what constitutes moral obedience to divine commandments or universal laws (Wong, 2017).

3. Virtue Ethics Theoretical Approach

Virtue ethics centers on the individual’s character rather than rules or consequences (Hursthouse, 1999). This approach focuses on cultivating virtues—traits that promote human flourishing—ensuring individuals act morally when they embody virtuous qualities.
##### Historical Context
The foundations of virtue ethics emerge from classical philosophers like Aristotle and Confucius, who emphasized moral character and the role of community in ethical development (MacIntyre, 1981).
##### Weaknesses of Virtue Theory
Despite its strengths, virtue ethics faces challenges in discerning which traits qualify as virtues. Furthermore, it often leads to justifications reliant on consequentialist or nonconsequentialist principles, complicating its application in specific contexts (Hursthouse & Pettigrove, 2016).

Ethical Application: Scenario Analysis

In the context of air pollution in city Y, a hypothetical council meeting could involve various ethical frameworks when addressing the pollution crisis.
##### Consequentialist Approach
- Ethical Egoism: An executive could argue for legislative changes based on personal health. Implementing clean air policies would reduce personal suffering.
- Act Utilitarianism: Support for the proposed changes would highlight enhanced public health outcomes, benefiting the majority of city inhabitants.
- Rule Utilitarianism: By emphasizing policies that generally favor community health, a council member could advocate for laws that protect citizens, aligning with established communal rules.
##### Nonconsequentialist Approach
- Divine Command Theory: In framing the proposal, one might quote the Golden Rule, underscoring that leaders should treat citizens with compassion, mirroring divine love in social responsibilities.
- Kant's Categorical Imperative: One might argue that enacting proposed changes aligns with the duty to protect citizens’ welfare, providing a moral obligation to seek environmental stability.
##### Virtue Ethics Approach
By promoting actions that display virtues of compassion and courage, council members could underscore the morale's worthiness. Recognizing the challenges surrounding environmental degradation, a virtue ethics approach would emphasize moral development and virtuous behavior in decision-making.

Conclusion

In ethical discourse, synthesizing various approaches enables a comprehensive understanding. Each theory's weaknesses can serve as strengths in others, facilitating a more nuanced and responsible ethical philosophy. Employing an integrated approach to ethics will ultimately enrich ethical decision-making, providing frameworks adaptable for the diverse challenges faced in modern ethical dilemmas.
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References

1. Adams, M. M. (2019). A Theory of Virtue: Excellence in Being for the Good. Oxford University Press.
2. Gert, B., Gilbert, D., & Culver, C. (2017). Morality: Its Nature and Justification. Oxford University Press.
3. Hursthouse, R. (1999). Virtue Ethics. In Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ethics-virtue/
4. Hursthouse, R., & Pettigrove, G. (2016). Virtue Ethics. In Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ethics-virtue/
5. Kant, I. (2002). Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. Yale University Press.
6. MacIntyre, A. (1981). After Virtue. University of Notre Dame Press.
7. Mill, J. S. (2001). Utilitarianism. Hacker Art Books.
8. Portmore, D. W. (2013). Egoism and the Ethics of Consequentialism. In Act and Rule Utilitarianism. Cambridge University Press.
9. Rachels, J., & Rachels, S. (2015). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. McGraw-Hill Education.
10. Shafer-Landau, R. (2015). The Fundamentals of Ethics. Oxford University Press.
11. Sinnott-Armstrong, W. (2019). Consequentialism. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/consequentialism/
12. Sullivan, W. M. (2016). Consequentialist Ethics for the 21st Century. Routledge.
13. Wong, D. (2017). Moral Diversity and Ethical Pluralism. Oxford University Press.