Ethics Compare the Similarities and Differences Between Essay

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Ethics

Compare the similarities and differences between virtue theory, utilitarianism and deontological ethics

In the study of ethics, there are a number of theories that are designed to influence how someone is reacting to various events that are occurring in their lives. This is designed to create a series of standards that will affect the way they are reacting with the world around them and other people. Depending upon the approach, this will impact their behavior and beliefs. ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)

A description of the differences in how each theory addresses ethics and morality

The virtue theory is when there is a focus on the character of the individual in determining their behavior. This is accomplished by looking at the actions that are taken by the person and how their beliefs are influencing their thinking. There are several key questions that are asked during this process to include:

Who am I?

Who should I become?

How will I achieve these objectives? ("Virtue Ethics," 2012)

The combination of these factors is designed to teach temperance, fortitude, justice, prudence and bravery. When someone is embracing these attributes they are reaching for a higher set of moral standards that are changing their behavior and how they are reacting to a host of events. This is addressing ethics and morality by looking at the thoughts of the individual.
("Virtue Ethics," 2012)

Utilitarianism is when there is a focus on if the actions of a person will help to promote the greatest amounts of happiness. Anything that is contrary this general objective, is considered to be immoral utilizing this approach. Under this theory there are several different areas that are emphasized to include: consequentialism, goodness and doing the right thing. ("Utilitarianism," 2009)

Consequentialism is when there is a focus on the outcome of the actions on everyone. This means that anything which takes place will look at the results and the positive or negative effects. It is at this point that these actions are considered to be right or wrong. Goodness is when there is an emphasis on promoting activities that will create happiness vs. despair. The outcome and the levels of joy will determine if specific actions are considered to be morally correct. These areas are addressing ethics and morality by showing the effects of various activities on everyone (which will decide if the person is acting justly). ("Utilitarianism," 2009)

Deontological ethics is when there is a focus on the morality of an action based on the person's ability to follow different rules. This will have an influence in determining if someone is acting morally correct. When this happens, everyone….....

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