Author: Lydia Ashcombe

Key takeaways Utilitarianism focuses on actions that maximize overall happiness, emphasizing outcomes over intentions. Peter Singer expands moral consideration to include animals and advocates for effective altruism, encouraging impactful resource use. Applying utilitarian principles often challenges personal biases, promoting a broader concern for the welfare of others. Common critiques include the difficulty of measuring happiness and the potential to justify morally questionable actions for the greater good. Introduction to Utilitarianism Basics Utilitarianism, at its core, asks a simple yet profound question: What action brings the greatest happiness to the greatest number? When I first encountered this idea, it struck me how practical and relatable it felt, almost like a moral calculator for everyday decisions. Don’t we all, at some point, weigh our choices based on who benefits and how much?…

Key takeaways Utilitarianism emphasizes actions that promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number, shifting focus from intentions to outcomes. John Stuart Mill introduced the distinction between higher and lower pleasures, underscoring the importance of quality over quantity in happiness. Applying utilitarianism involves balancing individual liberties with the well-being of the community, which enhances personal fulfillment and responsibility. Challenges in utilitarianism include measuring happiness and reconciling individual rights with the greater good, highlighting the complexity of ethical decision-making. Introduction to Utilitarianism Philosophy Utilitarianism always struck me as both simple and profound—at its core, it asks a straightforward question: What action leads to the greatest happiness for the greatest number? This idea, focusing on outcomes rather than intentions, challenged me to think differently about moral choices I had taken for granted.…

Key takeaways Business ethics prioritize fairness, honesty, and respect, fostering long-term trust and integrity over immediate profits. Kantian ethics emphasizes moral duty and the dignity of individuals, prompting decisions based on universalizability rather than self-interest. Holding firm to ethical principles can be challenging but ultimately builds lasting trust and transforms business relationships. Consistently applying ethical standards creates a strong moral foundation, guiding decision-making even in uncertain situations. Understanding Business Ethics Principles Understanding business ethics principles starts with recognizing that these are more than just rules—they’re a reflection of our values in action. When I first faced a tough decision at work, I realized that ethics challenge us to consider not only what is profitable but also what is right. Have you ever wondered why some businesses thrive long-term while others…

Key takeaways Ethical subjectivism emphasizes that moral judgments are influenced by individual feelings rather than objective truths, challenging traditional views of morality. Engaging with key philosophical concepts promotes personal transformation and deeper understanding, highlighting the need for clear definitions in discussions. Research in philosophy requires critical analysis of texts and diverse perspectives, as well as patience to appreciate the complexity of differing viewpoints. Practical applications of ethical subjectivism encourage empathy and openness in understanding moral disagreements, particularly in multicultural contexts. Understanding Ethical Subjectivism Fundamentals When I first encountered ethical subjectivism, I found it surprisingly intuitive yet unsettling. It suggests that moral judgments are not about universal truths but rather reflect individual feelings or attitudes. Have you ever felt strongly that something was right or wrong simply because of your own…