Ethical philosophy statement
Some people believe that you can tell who a person is by what they do when no one is looking. Let's look at the following case. John Doe, a nurse, has downloaded an application to her phone that allows him to download copyrighted textbooks for a nursing course (that Doe is going to take) without his Internet Service Provider knowing it. The application is called "Cloak" as in cloak of invisibility (a hooded coat one wears to make it so others cannot see you). The application disguises his phone and makes it so the information on it is inaccessible. John is aware that other people who are of a lower socio-economic status (like him) also use this software program for the same reason (and to save money). John Doe knows that his religion forbids him from using this application to download in this manner. John Doe is focused on his own economic situation and does not consider the publisher, author, and others involved in the books. Think about a course of social action; what social values should be used to address this moral issue and conflict.
Create a personal ethical philosophy and explain from which philosophy or philosophies (it must include at least one of the following: virtue ethics, Kantian ethics, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, or social contract ethics) you created it and why the contents are important and meaningful for you. List its precepts.
Take your personal ethical philosophy statement and use it to work through John Doe's case. What is moral and immoral per your theory?
How would the veil of ignorance or a different theory of justice address John Doe's case?
Sample Solution
My personal ethical philosophy is based on a combination of Kantian ethics, utilitarianism, and virtue ethics. I believe that it is important to consider the consequences of my actions before deciding what course of action to take, but also to strive for moral goodness in all areas of life. To this end, I believe that everyone should be treated equally and with respect regardless of their socio-economic status or any other factor. Furthermore,
I believe that we have an obligation to act according to our moral code and beliefs; while we may encounter difficult decisions at times, ultimately it is up to us as individuals to choose whether or not we will follow these principles.
In terms of John Doe's case specifically, I believe that he has a moral obligation not only towards himself but also towards society at large which does not permit him from using this application for downloading textbooks in such a manner. From a Kantian perspective, John Doe must act out of his sense of duty and respect for the law; by circumventing this law he disregards the rights of others and ignores his responsibility as an individual member of society. Utilitarianism emphasizes the consequence-based decision making process so if John were to pursue this course then he would be more likely than not acting against the overall good/happiness/satisfaction effect on people involved (including himself). The general concept behind Virtue Ethics states that one should act out of compassion towards others even when there are other factors which can influence a decision; taking into consideration both financial implications as well as moral considerations here leads me firmly conclude - John Doe shouldn't use "Cloak" software program due its ethically dubious nature and potential legal ramifications.
The principle behind Rawls' veil of ignorance suggests that morality should be determined based on objectivity rather than subjective preferences; under such conditions one must weigh each situation dispassionately without considering personal gain or loss. In this specific case then one cannot decide on whether or not it is morally permissible for John Doe download copyrighted materials without first understanding who might suffer most if caught doing so - publishers? authors? some third party indirectly affected by illegal activities? Through the application Rawls' veil one quickly arrives at conclusion - no matter how desperate financial situation might be - breaking laws always carries heavy repercussions!
Ultimately each theory offers valuable insights into determining what is morally correct in any given situation however in practice it often comes down individuals own judgement fused together with relevant precedents set forth through laws enforced by governing authorities. In case with John Doe his values clearly conflict with tenets set forth by religion thus providing him strong motivation adhere higher ethical standards despite potential financial hardship associated with following them (i.e purchasing expensive books etc.).