What is ethics?

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Ethics is the branch of philosophy that studies moral principles, values, and rules that guide human behavior, distinguishing right from wrong. It examines how individuals ought to act and what constitutes a good life.

Key principles of ethics include: 1. Autonomy: Respecting individuals' freedom to make their own choices.

2. Beneficence: Acting to promote the well-being of others.

3. Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm to others.

4. Justice: Ensuring fairness and equality in treatment.

5. Fidelity: Keeping promises and being trustworthy.

These principles often guide ethical decision-making in various contexts, such as medicine, law, and everyday life.

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The key principles of ethics are:

1. Autonomy: Respecting individuals' freedom to make their own choices.

2. Beneficence: Acting to promote the well-being of others.

3. Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm to others.

4. Justice: Ensuring fairness and equality in treatment.

5. Fidelity: Keeping promises and being trustworthy.

These principles guide ethical decision-making across various contexts.

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Ah, you're referring to normative ethical theories that go beyond the principles listed. Here are the key ones:

1. Consequentialism: Judges actions based on their outcomes. The most well-known form is Utilitarianism, which seeks to maximize overall happiness or utility.

- Example: Choosing a policy that benefits the majority, even if it harms a few.

2. Deontology: Focuses on duty and rules, rather than consequences. Actions are right or wrong based on their adherence to moral principles.

- Example: Telling the truth because it's a moral duty, even if it leads to negative outcomes.

3. Virtue Ethics: Emphasizes character and virtues (e.g., courage, honesty) over rules or outcomes. It asks, "What kind of person should I be?" - Example: Acting generously because it reflects a virtuous character.

4. Rights-Based Ethics: Centers on respecting and protecting individual rights (e.g., freedom, privacy).

- Example: Defending free speech even if it causes discomfort.

These frameworks provide different lenses for evaluating ethical dilemmas, often leading to contrasting conclusions.

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