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a 350- to 700-word essay comparing the similarities and differences between virtue theory, utilitarianism, and deontological ethics. Include the following in your essay: o A description of the differences in how each theory addresses ethics and morality o A personal experience to explain the relationship between virtue, values, and moral concepts as they relate to one of the three theories Comparing and contrasting ethical theories helps one to understand ones guidance system which helps or aides one through their decision making process. Each theory emphasizes different points such as predicting the outcome and following one’s duties to others in order to reach an ethically correct decision. ” (2011) Each theory has a familiar thread with an end goal. In this paper each of the following three ethical theories utilitarianism, Virtue, and Deontological will be described relating to ethics and morality. Concluding with a personal experience with which the relationship between virtue, values, and moral concepts as they relate to utilitarianism.
While describing the utilitarianism is concerned with arriving at the most good for all. “According to this theory an individual’s rights may be infringed upon in order to benefit a greater population. ” (2011) In terms of ethics of a utilitarian trying to make positive change for a larger group. Morally a utilitarian would guide themselves in decision based on the group the belonged to or are associated with. A person is who judges another by his character rather than their actions is exemplifying the virtue theory of ethics.
The observed behavior the majority of the time is relied upon more so than a behavior that happened only once. In terms of the ethical portion rules are less followed but instead focus on people practicing good character, like kindness and generosity. Morally a virtue-based person would guide the person to make correct decisions through life through their experiences and journey. Honoring obligations and duties are the focus of deontological theory.
Ethically deontologists guide their group by practicing adhering to independent moral rules or duties, in doing so they are acting morally. Morally the deontologist would full fill their duty and obligations by keeping their promises at all cost. My son attends the United States Air Force Academy where his focus for most of his high school years was virtue-based. Honoring obligations and duties translated to his success in being appointed to the academy.