5 - The Possibility of a Unifying Ethical Theory

Summary

Introduction

In Chapter 3 on Philosophic Belief Systems, it was mentioned that people of different philosophic viewpoints might agree on a common solution to an ethical dilemma. They would, however, do so for different reasons. Let us recall the outlooks of the four basic philosophies. The Idealist believes that reality lies ultimately in the ideal, nonmaterial dimension and so goodness would involve conformity to the ideal. The Realist believes that reality is found in nature and so goodness involves acting in accord with what is natural. The Pragmatist believes that reality is not an idea or a thing but rather an ongoing experience (i.e., the flow of life) and so goodness is concerned with the production of socially desirable results. The Existentialist believes that reality is self-defined and so goodness is concerned with whatever one's own conscience dictates.

To illustrate, let us take the case of murder. The Idealist would say that murder is wrong because all life is sacred. The Realist would say that murder is wrong because people should die only of natural causes. The Pragmatist would say that murder is wrong because it is disruptive of the good of society. The Existentialist would say that murder is wrong simply because the Existentialist believes it is wrong (probably out of respect for other people's autonomy and integrity).