Diamante, April Joyce

CHE70-1
Essay 1: True North

Two ethical theories that attempt to evaluate morality and justify principles are teleology
and deontology. Teleological ethics are fixated on the result of an action thereby using it as basis
for judging the praiseworthy of the action. Deontology, on the other hand, views morality as an
obligation basing the rightness or wrongness of an action on a series of rules in place of its
consequences or results. The former ethical theory delves in general societal well-being while the
latter prioritizes a universal level of moral judgment therefore promoting fairness and uniformity.

When applied in various situational dilemmas, teleological ethics is more applicable in

emotive and complicated situations such as when a father lies about the purpose of his loan
application in order to fund the hospitalization of his fatally ill son. Deontology would claim lying
is wrong but teleology would allow such decision for the sake of saving the son. However,
teleological ethics, in general, is confronted by problems such as: promotion of “end justifies the
means” mentality, inability to protect rights of minorities because of its aim to promote actions
based on the greater good, and inaccurate prediction of results or consequences. If people were
able to decide based on their own perception of different situations, prejudiced judgment of right
or wrong will arise hence, producing issue of who becomes authorized to decide when exceptions
should be made. Here is when a moral framework, which is promoted by deontology, is being
necessitated. Indeed, solving ethical dilemmas and choosing between which ethical theory to
follow is not easy. But with the guidance of a moral framework based on the teachings in the Bible,
I believe, one will be able to bear ethical dilemmas and create correct decisions. The main reason
for my support of deontological thinking is its ability to provide a strong base for creating logical
decisions.

In order to ensure that a person is treading the path to ethical decision making, moral
compass that is headed to True North is an indicator. I believe that one’s moral compass indicates
a person’s particular direction in life based on his principles and values and that it provides the
baseline for one’s permitted behavior. I find it essential for individuals to establish their absolute
standards to realign their true norths because it is what they rely on during real-life dilemmas,
most especially in the industry where work ethics have to be exercised by strengthening of
professional values.

Personally, my standard on making right decisions, hence, my true north is based on rules
established by a ruling authority, moral framework established in the bible, my social conscience,
equality or fairness, and most of all, my compassion for others. By recognizing the need to take
responsibility of my actions, I am aware of my choices and with my empathy, I ensure that my
behavior or decision does not inflict harm on others. Additionally, I improve my values by taking
criticisms regarding my behavior positively.