Unit 1: Nature and Scope of Applied Ethics
From Abstract Theory to Practical Action.
Table of Contents
1. Definition and Meaning
Applied Ethics is the branch of ethics that examines specific, controversial moral issues such as abortion, euthanasia, animal rights, and environmental protection. While Normative Ethics asks "What makes an action right?", Applied Ethics asks "Is this specific action right?"
It is often called "Practical Ethics" because it uses philosophical methods to solve dilemmas in professional, public, and private life.
2. Relationship Between Theory and Practice
Applied Ethics does not exist in a vacuum; it relies on the theories you learned in General Ethics. When we analyze a case, we often use two main approaches:
- Top-Down Model: Applying a general rule (like Kant’s Categorical Imperative or Mill’s Utilitarianism) to a specific case.
- Bottom-Up Model (Casuistry): Looking at specific cases first and finding "moral parallels" in previous similar situations to determine the right path.
3. Distinctive Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Interdisciplinary | It requires knowledge of other fields (Law, Medicine, Ecology, etc.) to make informed moral judgments. |
| Controversial | It deals with issues where there is significant disagreement and no easy "right" answer. |
| Action-Oriented | The goal is not just to understand, but to decide on a course of conduct or policy. |