The Concept of Ethics, Universal Ethical Egoism Theory - Essay Example

? Ethics al affiliation Ethics The concept of ethics has been a debatable topic over the years. In an attempt to explain the actions taken by human beings in the society, numerous researchers and analysts have come up with the idea of devising theories that explain the various actions and deeds by various persons in the society. This is justified from the idea of theories being credited for their ability to find answers to various predicaments in the society. Consequently, a myriad of theories were brought forward so as to attempt to explain human behavior. This essay shall analyze the theories of Universal Ethical Egoism theory, Rule Utilitarianism Theory and Confucian Moral Self-Cultivation Theory and which among them conforms to the basics of ethics in society. Universal Ethical Egoism theory The Universal Ethical Egoism theory works with the intention of all ensuring all individuals act in accordance with pursuing personal interests. According to MacKinnon (2010) a person’s ego must be at liberty to choose what is best for them. In the case, of personal freedom and Universal Ethical Egoism theory the individual must be directed towards attaining personal freedom through having an opportunity to allow their interests take the lead. However, just like any other theories, this theory is also faced with the challenges. The major challenge is discerning at what confines the best interests can be measured. For instance, the term ‘ best interests’ does not specify on what measures the interests aim at being achieved. On the other hand, Thiroux & Kraseman (2008) report, what might be pleasurable to an individual at a particular period of time may not imply the same situation is beneficial to the individual. Rule Utilitarianism Theory Rule Utilitarian works on the grounds of, individuals in the society working in accordance to the set of laws and regulations imposed on them by the system of rule (Borchert, 2006). The set rules determine the kind of behavior to be portrayed by these individuals in the society. A practical analysis of the theory illustrates how individuals are forced with the rules and regulations imposed on them by the society. West (2006) indicates that if these rules and regulations are adhered to, by all means, there are chances that there is a great likelihood that, the society will acquire the attributes of maximum utility and that an individual cannot operate on the basis of performing roles that are not permissible in the society. All actions directed towards the right course of action allow individuals fit in the society. Relativism, according to Thiroux & Kraseman (2008) indicates that all views are valid depending on the individual’s perception of the attribute. In the case of ethics, all morals are indicated to be good. However, such views have been indicated to complicate the manner in which individuals think and perceive things in the society. Relativism advocates that, moral values, just like beauty are subjective. All persons are justified to have their own opinions despite the conditions one is subjected to. Confucian Moral Self-Cultivation Theory According to Ivanhoe (2000), the Confucian Moral Self-Cultivation Theory works on the basis of individuals having humanity instincts in them, which allows them, be corrected in times of wrong deeds. He also indicates that, human beings can be taught on various concepts in life whilst in the process of cultivating themselves into almost perfect individuals. This theory mostly emphasizes on the virtues of individuals. Additionally, human beings should be ready to surrender their lives for the sake of fundamental values of the Chinese system. This theory alienates the thought of the existence of a form of god or supernatural being that controls them. Analysis of the theories- conformity to the Rule Utilitarianism Theory Just like indicated above, the Rule Utilitarian Theory works focuses on individuals working in accordance to the set of laws and regulations imposed on them by the system of rules (LaFollette, 2002). From an analysis of the above theories, the most applicable theory in the quest to attain utilitarianism is the Universal Ethical Egoism theory. The theory that conforms to the Rule Utilitarianism is the Universal Ethical Egoism theory that indicates that all human beings must always endeavor to ensure that they attain their self interests despite the challenges that may hinder their pursuing of their goals and objectives. In as much, individuals are bound to pursue their interests, the rule utilitarianism theory only permits actions that are suitable for all persons in the society. In this context, therefore, individuals’ actions are governed; creating a situation other individuals will also have an opportunity to attain their own goals and objectives as well. Analysis of the theories- conformity to the Absolutism Moral absolutism is an ethical perspective which draws the boundary between right and wrong. According to Thiroux & Kraseman (2008), absolutism explains what is right despite, the circumstances determining various actions. An example of robbery may be justified on the basis of hunger or poverty, but such excuses do not apply in the context of absolutism. From this perspective, it is justified to argue on the grounds of relativism conforming to Universal Ethical Egoism theory, which indicates that individuals must be directed towards attaining their best in the society. On the other hand, individuals must also be keen when selecting and making decisions guided by their perception on the morals they ascribe to the deeds and attributes. In the case of ethics, all morals are indicated to be good. However, such views have been indicated to complicate the manner in which individuals think and perceive things in the society. Conclusion Conclusively, ethics has been a contentious issue, since many individuals tend to justify their actions, despite how bad they can be, or harm caused to the other party. From the above discussion, it is evident how some rules cannot change; thus, individuals need to work towards always being in accordance to the set rules and regulations. It is imperative to note the contribution of ethics in determining different types of individuals and the reasons behind the actions they undertake in the society. References Borchert, D. (2006). Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Shaftesbury – Zubiri. USA, New York: Macmillan. Ivanhoe, J. (2000). Confucian moral self cultivation. Indianapolis/ Cambridge: Hackett Publishing. LaFollette, H. (2002). Ethics in practice: an anthology. New York: Wiley-Blackwell. MacKinnon, B. (2010). Ethics: Theory and Contemporary Issues - Concise Edition. London: Cengage Learning. Thiroux, P. & Kraseman, K. (2008). Ethics: Theory and Practice. New York: Prentice Hall. West, H. (2006).The Blackwell guide to Mill's Utilitarianism. New York: Wiley-Blackwell. Read More