Unit 5: Applied Ethics

Definition and Scope of Applied Ethics

Applied Ethics is the third major field of ethics. It is the practical application of normative ethical theories (like Utilitarianism, Deontology, Virtue Ethics) to real-world, controversial moral problems.

• Definition: It is a "real-world" branch of moral philosophy that attempts to work through the moral dimensions of specific, controversial issues.
• Scope: The scope of applied ethics is vast and grows as technology and society change. Key areas include:
  • Bioethics: Abortion, euthanasia, human cloning, genetic engineering.
  • Environmental Ethics: Animal rights, climate change, pollution.
  • Business Ethics: Corporate social responsibility, whistleblower rights.
  • Media Ethics: Privacy, censorship, fake news.
  • Computer Ethics: Artificial intelligence, data privacy.

This unit focuses on two specific areas: Environmental Ethics and Theories of Punishment.

Environmental Ethics: Anthropocentrism and Eco-centrism

Environmental Ethics is the branch of applied ethics that studies the moral relationship between human beings and the natural environment.

The central question is: Do we have moral obligations to the environment? If so, why?

This leads to a spectrum of views, with two main opposing poles:

1. Anthropocentrism (Human-Centered)

• From the Greek anthropos, meaning "human."
• Core Belief: Only human beings have intrinsic value.
• The natural world (animals, plants, rivers) has only instrumental value—its value is based on its usefulness to humans.
• Ethical Standpoint: We should protect the environment *because* it is essential for human survival and well-being. We have no moral duty to a tree *for its own sake*, but we have a duty to not destroy the forests *because* it will harm humanity (e.g., climate change, loss of resources).

2. Eco-centrism (Ecosystem-Centered)

• From the Greek oikos, meaning "house" or "ecology."
• Core Belief: The ecosystem as a whole—including its non-living (abiotic) parts like rivers and mountains, and its living (biotic) parts—has intrinsic value.
• Humans are just one part of this interconnected system, not its masters.
• Ethical Standpoint: We have a direct moral obligation to the environment (e.g., to species, to ecosystems) *regardless* of its usefulness to humans. A famous proponent is Aldo Leopold, who argued for a "Land Ethic" where we should treat the land community with moral respect.

Theories of Punishment: Introduction

This is a branch of social and political philosophy that asks: What is the moral justification for the state to punish criminals?

Punishment (e.g., prison, fines) involves intentionally inflicting harm, pain, or loss of liberty on a person. This requires a strong moral justification. There are three main theories.

• Backward-looking: Justifies punishment based on what the criminal did in the past (Retributive).
• Forward-looking: Justifies punishment based on the good future consequences it will produce (Deterrent, Reformative).

Theories of Punishment: Retributive, Deterrent, and Reformative