The first four chapters of our module have opened opportunities for me to gain more perspectives and broaden my understanding of current issues. In this paper, I will integrate the concepts and theories learned from Modules 1-4 to analyze certain social issues.

One of the ethical theories discussed in the modules is ethical relativism. This theory suggests that morality is relative to cultural norms, meaning that an action's rightness or wrongness depends on the societal norms where it is practiced. However, this theory is flawed, as it assumes that morality is a matter of cultural taste. For example, slavery was once socially and morally acceptable in some cultures, but it is now deemed morally and socially wrong. Despite the differences in cultural practices, it is important to recognize that people share common moral values, such as respect for life, justice, and peace. Furthermore, this theory can lead to social conformity, which hinders society's progress. It is our responsibility to challenge and correct moral practices and beliefs that are deemed morally wrong.

Another significant ethical theory is relational theory, which focuses on human relationships and moral duties. It emphasizes that ethical behavior is about how people should live together and treat each other. Even without relationships, every person, including animals, deserves equal respect and consideration. This theory reinforces the idea that individuals are morally accountable for their actions.

Utilitarianism is another ethical theory that stands out to me. It suggests that the rightness or wrongness of an action depends on its overall utility or the amount of happiness it brings to the majority. John Stuart Mill states that an action is right if it maximizes the general utility, which he relates to happiness. In simpler terms, if you are deciding on a drink to purchase, the utilitarian principle would suggest that you choose the drink that would satisfy and give you the greatest happiness or pleasure.

Overall, the ethical theories discussed in the modules provide different perspectives on social issues, acknowledging cultural differences while ensuring moral accountability and promoting the greatest good for society.

The Problem with Divine Command Theory

Religion has long been relied upon as a system of ethics, but the issue arises when trying to interpret the will of God. Which religion and whose notion of God is the authentic one? The divine command theory asserts that God is the ultimate source of morality and that all His commands are righteous. However, does this mean that killing or deceiving people is morally right if God allows it? One criticism of this theory is the account in the Book of Genesis when God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son. The complexity of religious scriptures makes it difficult to interpret them. None of us knows what God's real plans are for us. If God is omnipotent and all-knowing and the basis of our morality, how can we explain the suffering of innocent people?

To conclude, we cannot rely on any one particular religion as the basis of morality as it varies from one religion to another. Moreover, due to the complexity and broadness of religious scriptures, it is exceedingly difficult to ascertain God's will and commands. This being said, there is nothing morally wrong in applying religious scriptures as they are also the foundation of moral principles and ethical reasoning.

References:

Evangelista, F., & Mabaquiao, N. (2020). Ethics Theories and Applications. Anvil Publishing,

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Given, L. (2008). Relational Ethics - SAGE Research Methods. SAGE Research Methods: Find resources to answer your research methods and statistics questions.

McCartney, S., & Parent, R. (2015). 2.7 Religion or Divine Command Theory – Ethics in law enforcement. BCcampus Open Publishing – Open Textbooks Adapted and Created by BC Faculty.

Unknown. (n.d.). Utilitarianism: John Stuart Mill. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville | SIUE.

Velazquez, M., Andre, C., Shanks, T., & Meyer, M. (n.d.). Ethical Relativism. Santa Clara University.