Current Ethical Debates

Introduction:
Ethics is a field of philosophy concerned with examining moral principles and
values that guide human behavior. It encompasses questions about right and wrong,
good and bad, just and unjust. Current ethical debates explore complex and often
controversial issues that impact individuals, society, and the environment. These
debates arise from diverse perspectives and involve competing values, beliefs, and
interests. In this module, we will examine some of the most pressing ethical debates of
our time, including natural moral law, deontology and moral responsibility,
discourse ethics, and social institutions. By exploring these debates, we can gain a
better understanding of the complexities of ethical decision-making and contribute to
the ongoing discourse on ethical issues.

I. Natural Moral Law

Natural Moral Law is a philosophical theory that asserts that there is a universal
moral law that is inherent to human beings and the world around us. It argues
that this law can be discovered through human reason and observation of the
natural world and that it provides a framework for ethical decision-making. While
Natural Moral Law has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome,
it remains a subject of debate in contemporary ethics.

1. One area where Natural Moral Law has been applied is in debates
surrounding reproductive rights: abortion and contraception. (a.) Natural
Moral Law argues that the purpose of sex is procreation and that any sexual
act that is not open to the possibility of procreation is immoral. This has led
some to argue that abortion and contraception are morally wrong, as they
interfere with the natural purpose of sex. However, (b.) critics of this view
argue that it is overly simplistic and that it fails to take into account the
complexity of human relationships and the importance of personal autonomy.

2. Another area where Natural Moral Law has been debated is in discussions of
environmental ethics. (a.) Natural Moral Law argues that humans have a
responsibility to care for the natural world and that they should use natural
resources wisely and sustainably. However, (b.) critics of this view argue that
it is too anthropocentric and fails to recognize the inherent value of non-
human life and the importance of biodiversity.

3. Finally, Natural Moral Law has been applied to debates surrounding same-
sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights. (a.) Natural Moral Law argues that sex
and marriage are only morally acceptable within the context of a
heterosexual relationship, as this is the only sexual relationship that is open
to procreation. However, (b.) critics of this view argue that it is
discriminatory and ignores the reality of same-sex relationships and families.

In conclusion, Natural Moral Law remains a subject of debate in contemporary

ethics, with proponents arguing that it provides a clear and objective framework
for ethical decision-making, while critics argue that it is too abstract and
subjective to be of practical use. Nevertheless, Natural Moral Law continues to
be applied to a wide range of contemporary ethical issues, including reproductive
rights, environmental ethics, and LGBTQ+ rights.
II. Deontology and Moral Responsibility

Deontology is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the importance of moral

duty and obligation. It argues that certain actions are inherently right or wrong,
regardless of their consequences, and that individuals have a moral
responsibility to adhere to these principles. In contemporary ethics, Deontology
has been a subject of debate in discussions of moral responsibility and the role
of individuals in ethical decision-making.

1. One of the key ethical debates surrounding Deontology today is the extent to
which individuals are morally responsible for the consequences of their
actions. Some argue that (a.) individuals have a duty to act in accordance
with moral principles, even if it leads to negative consequences, while others
argue that (b.) individuals should only be held responsible for the outcomes
of their actions, rather than the motives behind them.

2. Another area where Deontology has been applied is in discussions of

business ethics and corporate social responsibility. Deontological
theories argue that (a.) corporations have a moral responsibility to act in
accordance with ethical principles and that they should prioritize the well-
being of their stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the
environment. However, critics of this view argue that (b.) corporations are
primarily concerned with maximizing profits, and that their moral obligations
are limited to legal compliance.

3. Deontology has also been debated in discussions of medical ethics,

particularly around end-of-life care and medical decision-making.
Deontological theories argue that (a.) individuals have a moral duty to
respect the autonomy of patients and to act in their best interests, even if it
goes against their own personal beliefs or preferences. However, critics of
this view argue that (b.) medical decisions are complex and should take into
account a wide range of factors, including patient preferences, medical
evidence, and societal values.

4. Finally, Deontology has been applied to debates surrounding moral

responsibility and the criminal justice system. Deontological theories
argue that (a.) individuals have a moral responsibility to uphold the law and
to respect the rights of others and that those who violate these principles
should be held accountable. However, critics of this view argue that (b.) the
criminal justice system is often biased and unfair, and that it
disproportionately punishes marginalized communities.

In conclusion, Deontology remains a subject of debate in contemporary ethics,

with proponents arguing that it provides a clear and objective framework for
ethical decision-making, while critics argue that it is too rigid and fails to take
into account the complexity of moral issues. Nevertheless, Deontological
principles continue to be applied to a wide range of contemporary ethical issues,
including business ethics, medical ethics, and criminal justice.