Conventional Ethics
The International Association of Conference Interpreters has offered a high-quality explanation of what Ethics is about, what its concerns are, and the kinds of questions which it raises. This may prove helpful as an introduction to the field. Here it is, and I quote:
THE NEW PARADIGM
With the aid of the Unified Theory of Ethics we shall now proceed to offer answers to these questions; and then open it up for you to comment as to whether the answers given are in sync with your conscience, your personal sense of right and wrong.
Let’s aim at virtue, knowledge, and the creation of beautiful objects; allow happiness to occur as a byproduct. And that ‘happiness’ we aim for will be the happiness of all, in the sense, that our ultimate goal is a high-quality life for one and all. By “virtue” we mean: having a good character, having integrity, morality, honesty, kindness, inclusivity,responsibility, generosity, authenticity and transparency. That is how we shall live! That is what we shall mean by the phrase “The good life.”
: Is it right to be dishonest in a good cause?
No, it is not right. Except to save a life, or to entertain by performing magical illusions. The means we use to attain an end are to be consistent with the end-in-view. If the cause is good, then the means are to ethical and moral, i.e., good.
Can we justify living in opulence while elsewhere in the world people are starving?
No. By improved technology, and superior design it is our moral obligation to work on, or strive for, that starvation to end – without depriving anyone of his sense of abundance. Prosperity is to be shared, if we know our Ethics.
….To be continued in future posts.
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