SOUTHERN MINDANAO COLLEGES

ED 237
(Seminar on the Development of Moral Values
Include School & Community Relations)

Approaches to Ethics

PIACRISTER L. CURAYAG
MASTERAND

PROF. NATHAN DAGOHOY

PROFESSOR
 Introduction

Ethics, the study of moral principles and values, plays a central role in molding

the character and behavior of individuals in society. Schools and communities

are vital environments where moral values are cultivated, and ethical

approaches are instrumental in guiding this process. This report will discuss

different approaches to ethics within the context of school and community

relations, emphasizing their importance in nurturing morally responsible

citizens.

1. Virtue Ethics

Virtue ethics, often associated with philosophers like Aristotle, focuses on the

development of virtuous character traits. It posits that individuals should strive

to embody moral virtues such as honesty, compassion, courage, and integrity.

The emphasis is on what kind of person one should become rather than

determining specific rules or actions as right or wrong.

Application

Character Education Programs: In schools, educators can integrate virtue

ethics by implementing character education programs. These programs aim to

instill moral virtues in students through various activities, discussions, and role

modeling.

Role Models: Community members can serve as role models by

demonstrating virtuous behavior in their daily lives. Their actions can have a

profound impact on the moral development of individuals, particularly children.

2. Deontological Ethics

Deontological ethics, often associated with philosophers like Immanuel Kant,

focuses on the inherent moral duty or principles that guide actions.

It places emphasis on the rightness or wrongness of actions themselves

rather than their consequences. Individuals have a duty to act in accordance

with these moral principles.

Application

Ethical Discussions: Teachers can incorporate ethical dilemmas and moral

principles into their teaching across subjects. This encourages students to

analyze situations in terms of moral duty.

Moral Reasoning: Schools can promote moral reasoning skills by engaging

students in discussions where they must evaluate actions based on ethical

principles.

Codes of Conduct: Communities can establish codes of conduct or ethical

guidelines that reflect shared moral duties and principles, serving as a

foundation for ethical behavior within the community.

3. Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism, associated with philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John

Stuart Mill, assesses the morality of actions based on their consequences. It

seeks to maximize overall happiness or utility, aiming to achieve the greatest

good for the greatest number of people.

Application
Policy Evaluation: Within schools and communities, utilitarianism can be

used to evaluate policies and decisions. By considering how different choices

impact the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole,

stakeholders can make more informed ethical decisions.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Utilitarianism encourages a systematic examination

of the costs and benefits associated with various actions, helping individuals

and groups make ethical choices that maximize positive outcomes.

4. Ethical Relativism

Ethical relativism asserts that morality is subjective and varies between

cultures, individuals, or societies.

It acknowledges that different people may have different ethical beliefs and

values.

Application

Cultural Sensitivity: In schools and communities with diverse populations,

ethical relativism promotes cultural sensitivity and respect for differing moral

perspectives.

Open Dialogue: Encouraging open and respectful dialogue about ethics and

values allows individuals to better understand and appreciate different ethical

viewpoints.

Tolerance: Ethical relativism can help foster tolerance for diverse moral

beliefs, which is essential in pluralistic societies.

5. Social Contract Theory

Social contract theory, discussed by philosophers like Thomas Hobbes and

John Locke, suggests that individuals in a society agree to certain rules and

principles for mutual benefit.

It emphasizes the importance of cooperation and the implicit agreements that

bind members of a community.

Application

Teaching Civic Responsibility: Educators can use social contract theory to

teach students about civic responsibility and the obligations of being a

member of society.

Community Agreements: Communities can create explicit codes of conduct

or shared values that reflect the social contract. These agreements can help

guide ethical behavior within the community.

Conflict Resolution: Social contract theory can serve as a foundation for

resolving conflicts within schools and communities, emphasizing the

importance of mutual respect and cooperation.

The development of moral values within school and community relations is a

collaborative effort that relies on various ethical approaches. Virtue ethics

fosters virtuous character traits, while deontological ethics emphasizes moral

duty.

Utilitarianism considers the greater good, and ethical relativism acknowledges

diverse perspectives. Social contract theory underscores the importance of

cooperation and shared values.

By incorporating these ethical approaches into education and community

engagement, we can create environments that promote moral growth and

responsible citizenship.

It is essential for educators, students, and community members to work

together to cultivate a morally conscious society, ensuring that ethical

considerations remain at the forefront of our collective endeavors.