From Abstract Theory to Practical Action.
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. |
4. Major Domains of Applied Ethics
Applied Ethics is traditionally divided into several sub-fields, which you will likely study in the following units:
- Bioethics: Issues related to healthcare and biology (Abortion, Euthanasia, Cloning).
- Environmental Ethics: Human responsibility toward the natural world and non-human animals.
- Professional Ethics: Codes of conduct for doctors, lawyers, and engineers.
- Business Ethics: Corporate social responsibility, whistleblowing, and fair trade.
- Social Ethics: Issues like capital punishment, war, and social justice.
Exam Essentials
- Short Question: "Define Applied Ethics and its scope." (5 marks).
- Discussion Question: "Explain the difference between Normative Ethics and Applied Ethics." (10 marks).
- Key Concept: Moral Dilemma. A situation where two moral principles conflict, and choosing one requires violating the other. Applied ethics provides the tools to navigate these dilemmas.