Rianna Beatrice T.

Gaite IETHICS FBAPH1

ACTIVITY 01

This paper examines ethical decision-making as an intricate and complex procedure that
shapes numerous aspects of human existence. It does so by applying Michael Schur's insights and
The New York Times' investigative methodology. In his TED Talk, renowned author and producer
Schur offers advice on handling ethical dilemmas. Additionally, The New York Times video
questions the commonly held beliefs regarding the moral development of infants by examining
whether or not they are born with a moral sense.

In his TED Talk, Schur underscores the crucial role of ethics in decision-making, that
advocates for the development of a moral compass to navigate our life's challenges. He promotes
a comprehensive approach, that emphasizes the importance of self-reflection as the initial step in
identifying personal values and beliefs for ethical decision-making. Additionally, Schur stresses
the essential role of empathy and perspective-taking in resolving moral dilemmas. Furthermore,
he argues for prioritizing adherence to ethical principles over immediate outcomes, emphasizing
the enduring impact of moral integrity. This approach highlights the significance of how we should
uphold ethical standards, particularly in challenging situations, as a key aspect of ethical decision-
making in everyday life.

By investigating whether infants have a natural awareness of right and wrong, the study
questions the commonly held belief that moral judgment is only learned. The study's conclusions
challenge the idea that morality is only a result of socialization by highlighting the fact that infants
as young as six months old display basic moral judgments. Additionally, data points to the
existence of moral underpinnings that are universal and independent of cultural and societal
influences, suggesting that morality is built in human nature. These findings have important
impacts for moral education, calling into question how society views the emergence of moral
intuitions in young children and indicating that moral principles that are built into humans should
be taken into account in educational procedures.

When The New York Times' investigation and Michael Schur's ethical framework are
compared, an entire ethical perspective is revealed. Although Schur focuses on adult decision-
making, the investigation of moral intuitions in infants expands the discussion by implying that
ethical considerations may have origins much earlier than previously believed. When taken as a
whole, these stories demonstrate how ethics is an aspect of human behavior. Both sources offer
insights that highlight the complex interactions between nature and nurture that shape our moral
compass. This synthesis highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of ethics in a
variety of contexts by encouraging contemplation on the universality of ethical principles and
their enduring influence throughout the lifespan.