In this paper we are going to be looking at virtue, utilitarianism and deontological ethics. This will be accomplished by focusing on: the similarities and differences between each theory. Once this takes place, is when we show how this will influence individual choices and applying these concepts to a personal event.
¶ … Ethics
Compare the similarities and differences between virtue theory, utilitarianism and deontological ethics
In the study of ethics, there are a number of theories that are designed to influence how someone is reacting to various events that are occurring in their lives. This is designed to create a series of standards that will affect the way they are reacting with the world around them and other people. Depending upon the approach, this will impact their behavior and beliefs. ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)
A description of the differences in how each theory addresses ethics and morality
The virtue theory is when there is a focus on the character of the individual in determining their behavior. This is accomplished by looking at the actions that are taken by the person and how their beliefs are influencing their thinking. There are several key questions that are asked during this process to include:
Who am I?
Who should I become?
How will I achieve these objectives? ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)
The combination of these factors is designed to teach temperance, fortitude, justice, prudence and bravery. When someone is embracing these attributes they are reaching for a higher set of moral standards that are changing their behavior and how they are reacting to a host of events. This is addressing ethics and morality by looking at the thoughts of the individual. ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)
Utilitarianism is when there is a focus on if the actions of a person will help to promote the greatest amounts of happiness. Anything that is contrary this general objective, is considered to be immoral utilizing this approach. Under this theory there are several different areas that are emphasized to include: consequentialism, goodness and doing the right thing. ("Utilitarianism," 2009)
Consequentialism is when there is a focus on the outcome of the actions on everyone. This means that anything which takes place will look at the results and the positive or negative effects. It is at this point that these actions are considered to be right or wrong. Goodness is when there is an emphasis on promoting activities that will create happiness vs. despair. The outcome and the levels of joy will determine if specific actions are considered to be morally correct. These areas are addressing ethics and morality by showing the effects of various activities on everyone (which will decide if the person is acting justly). ("Utilitarianism," 2009)
Deontological ethics is when there is a focus on the morality of an action based on the person's ability to follow different rules. This will have an influence in determining if someone is acting morally correct. When this happens, everyone is able to decide if an individual is embracing or rejecting these values. This is addressing ethics and morality by illustrating how the beliefs and actions will determine if someone is accepting these attributes. ("Deontological Ethics," 2007)
A personal experience to explain the relationship between virtue, values, and moral concepts as they relate to one of the three theories
A personal experience involving these different theories occurred when I was driving a friend to the hospital (who was suffering from a heart attack). To reach the hospital sooner, I was breaking the speed limit and running stop signs / red lights. I successfully brought them to the emergency room and they were treated for the condition.
A few days later, the doctor told me how I was lucky. This is because my friend's situation was becoming more severe. If I had not arrived at the hospital when I did, there is a possibility that he could have had considerable damage (including permanent brain injuries).
Under the theory of virtue ethics, I am embracing the best practices by looking out for the best interests of my friend. This occurred based upon my belief that I cannot let him suffer and I should do everything possible to help him. The only way that this can be achieved is by taking him to the hospital as quickly as possible. ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)
While utilitarianism, is showing how the actions that I took in the situation are considered to be morally correct. This is because I was trying to bring about the greatest amounts of happiness possible. To do this, meant that I had to break the law in order to save my friend's life. ("Utilitarianism," 2009)
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