Moral Agent & Subject of Moral Worth | Concepts Unwrapped
McCombs School of Business・2 minutes read
Aristotle and other Athenian men founded Western Moral Philosophy on the principle of avoiding unjustified harm, permitting individuals to pursue the good life without harming others. Children start developing ethical behavior around age 5 by establishing rules for fairness and distinguishing between moral agents and subjects of moral worth.
Insights
- Aristotle and other wealthy Athenian men laid the groundwork for Western Moral Philosophy by emphasizing the avoidance of unjustified harm, enabling personal pursuits while respecting others' well-being.
- The differentiation between moral agents capable of intentional harm and subjects of moral worth like children highlights the need to safeguard vulnerable entities from harm, underscoring the complexity of ethical considerations.
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Recent questions
What is the foundation of Western Moral Philosophy?
The foundation of Western Moral Philosophy, established over 2000 years ago by Aristotle and other wealthy Athenian men, is the principle of not causing unjustified harm. This principle allows individuals to pursue their own idea of the good life as long as it doesn't impede others.
At what age do children begin practicing moral agency?
Children begin practicing moral agency around the age of 5. At this age, they start creating rules for fairness and special privileges, showcasing the early development of ethical behavior.
What is the distinction between moral agents and subjects of moral worth?
The distinction between moral agents and subjects of moral worth is crucial in ethics. Moral agents have the power to intentionally harm others, while subjects of moral worth, such as children, pets, and natural resources, are vulnerable to harm and require protection.
Who established the principle of not causing unjustified harm?
The principle of not causing unjustified harm was established by Aristotle and other wealthy Athenian men over 2000 years ago. This principle serves as the foundation of Western Moral Philosophy, allowing individuals to pursue their own idea of the good life without impeding others.
What is the significance of creating rules for fairness at a young age?
Creating rules for fairness at a young age, around 5 years old, is significant as it showcases the early development of ethical behavior in children. This practice of moral agency sets the stage for understanding the importance of fairness and justice in society.
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Summary
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"Foundations of Western Moral Philosophy and Ethics"
- Aristotle and other wealthy Athenian men established the principle of not causing unjustified harm as the foundation of Western Moral Philosophy over 2000 years ago, allowing individuals to pursue their own idea of the good life as long as it doesn't impede others.
- Children begin practicing moral agency around the age of 5 by creating rules for fairness and special privileges, showcasing the early development of ethical behavior.
- Distinction is made between moral agents, who have the power to intentionally harm others, and subjects of moral worth, such as children, pets, and natural resources, who are vulnerable to harm and require protection.
