Bautista, Francis Gabriel S.

GEETHIC Y15

Discussion 1 Paper

1. What is the meaning of Morality and Ethics?

- The ideas and precepts that shape a person's or a society's perception of appropriate
and inappropriate behavior are referred to as morality. It includes the innate knowledge
of what is deemed right or wrong, just, or unfair, and serves as the cornerstone for moral
decision-making. Contrarily, ethics is the methodical study of moral precepts, looking at
their implications and application in diverse situations. It entails assessing moral
principles critically and creating rules for appropriate conduct. To put it simply, ethics
provides the framework for reasoned judgment and deliberation in navigating complex
moral issues, while morality provides the fundamental values.

2. The standard of telling nothing but the truth should be done by anyone. What are
the reasons why? Be able to give manifestations of this standard.

- For several reasons, the moral precept of telling nothing but the truth is regarded as
fundamental. First, being truthful promotes openness and trust in interpersonal
relationships, which are the cornerstones of constructive communication. Second, it
supports a just and equitable society where information is trustworthy and protects
people's integrity. This standard is exhibited by being truthful in interpersonal
communications, direct in business dealings, and dedicated to accurate information
dissemination. Furthermore, a commitment to honesty reduces the possibility of false
information, dishonesty, and credibility loss, which eventually helps to create a
community that is more moral and reliable.

3. Cultural Ethical Relativism /Ethical Conventionalism states that the “The rightness
or wrongness of an action depends on society’s norms.” (Give 3 examples)
 Cultural Ethical Relativism or Ethical Conventionalism posits that the morality of an action is
determined by the societal norms prevailing in a particular culture. Here are three examples
illustrating this concept:
- Cultural Practices in Greetings: In some cultures, bowing is the customary way to greet
someone, while in others, a handshake is the norm. The perceived appropriateness of
these actions is culturally relative, demonstrating that what is considered polite or
respectful varies across societies.
- Dress Codes and Modesty: Different cultures have diverse standards for modesty and
appropriate clothing. For instance, what may be deemed modest attire in one society
could be considered overly conservative in another. The ethical judgment of dressing
appropriately is contingent on the prevailing cultural norms.
- Social Acceptance of Polygamy: Cultural norms influence views on marriage and
relationships. In societies that accept polygamous unions, having multiple spouses may
be deemed morally acceptable, whereas in cultures promoting monogamy, such
arrangements may be considered ethically inappropriate.

4. A person with no money steals from the store to feed his friends and neighbors
who are hungry. - A person steals cigarettes from a tobacco or cigarettes store
because he/she is addicted as a student in Ethics and Morality, evaluate the
actions of the examples.

- Both examples present complex ethical dilemmas that require a nuanced evaluation. In
the first scenario, where a person steals to feed friends and neighbors facing hunger, the
ethical assessment involves weighing altruistic intentions against the violation of
property rights. From a consequentialist standpoint, the positive outcome of alleviating
hunger may be considered, but deontologists may argue that stealing, regardless of the
motive, is inherently wrong. This scenario highlights the tension between utilitarianism
and deontology, prompting ethical discussions on the value of intentions versus actions.
- In the second scenario, where an individual steals cigarette due to addiction, the ethical
analysis involves considering the personal struggle with addiction, the health
consequences, and the violation of property rights. Addiction introduces a layer of
complexity, as the act is driven by a compulsion rather than malicious intent.
Nevertheless, stealing remains ethically problematic. Ethical discussions in this context
might delve into the responsibilities of society in addressing addiction and the potential
need for rehabilitative rather than punitive measures.