ETHICS

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY

Activity 1: Definition and Meaning of Philosophy

Directions: Define the following terms according to your understanding. Do not copy your
answer from the power point presentation).

1. Philosophy

Philosophy is the systematic study of existence, knowledge, reality, ethics, and meaning,

including metaphysics, knowledge, ethics, logic, aesthetics, and political philosophy. It aims to

expand our understanding of the world and ourselves by encouraging intellectual curiosity and

critical thinking.

2. Moral Philosophy/Ethics

Moral philosophy, also known as ethics, is a philosophical branch that explores ethical

principles and reasons, focusing on right and wrong, good and bad, virtuous and non-virtuous

behavior, and how to act in various situations.

3. Axiology

Axiology is the philosophical study of values and judgments, encompassing ethics, aesthetics,

and other value systems like politics or religion. It explores the nature of value, criteria for

making judgments, and their implications on individual behavior and societal norms.

4. Meta-Ethics

Meta-ethics is a philosophical study that delves into the nature, origins, and meanings of

ethical concepts, distinguishing it from normative ethics, which focuses on determining moral

right or wrong.

5. Bio-ethics
Bioethics is the interdisciplinary study of moral and ethical issues in biomedical practices,

technologies, policies, and research, addressing complex questions related to human life, health,

dignity, rights, and responsibilities.

Activity 2: Differentiate the following terms.

1. Ethics and Morality

Ethics is the systematic study and analysis of moral principles and standards, guiding

individuals and groups in making decisions about right and wrong, while Morality refers to

beliefs about right and wrong behavior within a specific cultural or social context, often

influenced by personal beliefs and religious teachings.

2. Pythagoras and Herodotus

Pythagoras, an ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, is known for the Pythagorean

theorem and his contributions to mathematics, geometry, and philosophy. Herodotus, the

"Father of History," is renowned for his "Histories," an early historical work chronicling the

Greco-Persian Wars and various cultures he encountered.

3. Sophos and Metempsychosis

Sophos, a term used in ancient Greek literature, signifies a wise or knowledgeable individual,

while Metempsychosis, a philosophical concept, refers to the soul's reincarnation post-death,

a concept associated with philosophers like Pythagoras and Plato.

4. Philosophy of Art and Philosophy of Science

Philosophy of Art is a branch of philosophy that explores fundamental questions about the

nature, meaning, and significance of art, including topics such as aesthetics, interpretation,

artistic creation, and the relationship between art and society.

Philosophy of Science is a branch of philosophy that examines the foundational

assumptions, methods, and implications of scientific inquiry, addressing questions about the

nature of scientific knowledge, the criteria for evaluating theories, and the relationship between
science and other areas of human knowledge.

5. Normative Ethics and Applied Ethics

Normative Ethics establishes moral norms and principles to guide human behavior and

decision-making, while Applied Ethics applies ethical theories to practical issues like

bioethics, environmental ethics, business ethics, and medical ethics, addressing real-world

ethical dilemmas and guiding ethical decision-making in various contexts.

Activity 3: React to the following statements and give your interpretation.

1. It is wrong to kill one person to save another.

This statement reflects a common ethical principle known as the "doctrine of double effect."

According to this principle, it is generally considered morally wrong to intentionally cause harm

to one person, even if it might save another person's life. This statement reflects a common

ethical principle known as the "doctrine of double effect." According to this principle, it is

generally considered morally wrong to intentionally cause harm to one person, even if it might

save another person's life.

2. Different societies have different moral codes.

This statement is a reflection of cultural relativism, it suggests that moral codes vary across

societies and there is no universal standard of morality. While different societies may have

different norms and values, this doesn't mean all moral beliefs are equally valid or that universal

moral principles can be applied across cultures.

3. There is no objective truth in ethics. Right and wrong are only opinions, and opinions vary
from culture to culture.

The statement exemplifies moral relativism, suggesting that ethical judgments are simply

subjective beliefs and that ethics have no objective truth. While it is true that moral opinions

differ between persons and civilizations, many ethical theories argue for the existence of
objective moral truths based on principles such as human dignity, justice, and the consequences

of actions.

4. Goodness and badness are not perceived by the senses.

The statement aligns with some philosophical approaches, such as moral non-naturalism or

moral realism, which suggest that moral attributes such as goodness and badness are not

physical properties that can be seen by the senses but are still objective features of reality.

5. Voluntary actions are moral.

This statement represents the idea that moral responsibility is connected to individuals'

voluntary activities. Many ethical theories, such as deontology or ethical virtue, emphasize the

importance of purposeful actions in defining moral values. However, the nature of voluntary

activities and their moral implications may vary depending on the ethical framework under

consideration.

Activity 4: Answer the following statements by providing the necessary information through your
own words.

1. What is the Method used in Philosophy?

The method used in philosophy is separated according to the branch or subject being studied.

However, common methods include rational debate, critical analysis, logical reasoning, thought

experiments, and direct observation (in areas such as philosophy of science).

2. What is the Object of Philosophy?

The object of philosophy is to study the nature of reality, existence, knowledge, values, reason,

mind, and language, among other fundamental aspects of human experience and the universe.

Philosophy is primarily concerned with understanding the world's basic principles and systems

and our place within them.

3. What is the Goal of Philosophy?

The goal of philosophy are multiple and differ according to the philosopher or philosophical

tradition. However, overall objectives can involve pursuing wisdom, establishing consistency

and clarity in our views, discovering truth, encouraging critical thinking, developing intellectual

curiosity, and improving individual happiness and well-being through reflective knowledge and

moral behavior.

4. There are Six (6) Importance of Ethics. Beside to these, as a student, what do you think is the
value of ethics in your life? Explain and discuss.

As a student, the value of ethics in life is deep. It serves as a guide for guiding one's activities

and decisions, both intellectual and personal. Ethics promotes ideals such as honesty,

accountability, and respect for others, all of which are necessary for academic performance,

relationships, and future goals. Also, ethical awareness develops kindness and understanding,

resulting in a more peaceful and socially responsible lifestyle.

5. There are Five (5) Reasons Why Students Should Study Ethics. In your own opinion, as a
student, what would be your contribution or why you should study Ethics? Explain and discuss.

As a student, studying ethics is important for developing ethical leadership skills, building a

culture of honesty, and positively contributing to one's educational environment and beyond.

Students may develop critical thinking skills and moral decision-making abilities by engaging

with ethical challenges and ideas, which will benefit the students in their studies and their

future careers.

Activity 5: Answer the following statements by providing the necessary information by your own
words.

1. What is the beauty to you?

For me, the beauty of me is confidence, contentedness, happiness, and love.

For me, beauty is confidence, contentedness, happiness, and love. Confidence demonstrates

strength, self-assurance, and resilience, inspiring others to face challenges and pursue their

dreams. Contentment is simple and inner peace, allowing people to appreciate life's joys and

maintain balance. Happiness is a common expression of beauty, bringing joy and positivity

into all aspects of life. It involves not only physical appearance but also developing resilience
and overall well-being. Love is a powerful expression of beauty, overcoming barriers and

connecting people emotionally. It promotes kindness, selflessness, and sacrifice, showcasing

humanity's natural goodness. Love is the most powerful power for healing, growth, and change,

making it a beautiful and necessary part of the human experience.

2. Do you believe in the statement that “Ignorance is the beginning of wisdom”? Explain.

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3. “Beauty lies on the beholder, not on the beholder”. Give your comment.

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4. Why do we have to be Ethical? Explain and discuss.

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5. “If beauty is made for being, then _______ has its own excuse for being” (Fill in the blank.)
And why?

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