Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 2.1
Classifi
cation of different theories of ethics
Process
oriented
Outcomes
oriented
Process and
outcomes
Theory
Monist
Pluralist
Absolutist
Situational
Care, ethics of
√
√
√
Case approach
√
√
√
Deontological
√
√
√
Eco-centred
√
√
√
Existential ethics
√
√
√
Experimentation,
ethics of
√
√
√
Hippocratic or
engineering oath
√
√
√
Human-centred
√
√
√
Narrative ethics
√
√
√
Negative
utilitarian ethics
√
√
√
Normative ethics
√
√
√
Positive utilitarian
√
√
√
Rights ethics
√
√
√
Rule based
√
√
√
Virtue ethics
√
√
√
2.2
Monist Ethical Theories and Approaches
2.2.1
Process-Oriented Ethical Theories and Approaches
2.2.1.1
Deontological Ethics
Deontology is derived from the Greek word deon, duty, and logos, science. It is
based on the requirement to carry out duties, generally regardless of consequences.
Therefore, deontological ethics requires determination of your obligations and
duties, as well as weighing up obligations under different duties. However, there is
not a total agreement on what these duties are. Rule deontology is a particular case
in which the moral duties to be followed are based on a set of rules rather than
personal or social judgements.
Kant's (
1792
,
1818
) categorical imperative is a particular and well-known example
of deontological ethics. It is 'categorical' because it is independent of desires. The
basic principle is that everyone is entitled to equal respect. The main features of
Kant's ethical theory can be expressed in terms of the following three principles,
which state his basic requirements for acting morally:
1. Act in every circumstance as though your every action were to become law for
everyone, yourself included, in the future.
2. Always treat other human beings as 'ends in themselves' and never merely as
'means'. This requires a recognition that other people exist in their own right
with their own feelings, ambitions and aims and are not tools to be exploited.
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