An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 7: Summary – Is there a difference between Mother Teresa and Adolph Hitler?

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At the core of ethics, we all recognize the difference between good and evil—even without a rulebook. A selfless life spent helping others versus one fueled by hatred and destruction is a distinction we intuitively understand. Ethical objectivism offers us a foundation to stand firm in these judgments, while cultural relativism would leave us swaying with opinions. Where do we go from here? The next step in our moral journey starts with the awareness that universal principles guide us, even when the specifics are tough to define.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 6: Who’s your daddy?

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At the heart of ethics, the true north may not be a rulebook or a theory—it’s the bonds we share. Whether it’s with another person, a community, or even ourselves, ethics can be grounded in how we nurture our relationships. Does our action build trust, understanding, and love? Or does it damage, isolate, and hurt? The quality of our relationships might just be the most important measure of a life well-lived—ethics is deeply rooted in connection.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 5: Which Star Shines Brightest?

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Ethics isn’t a one-size-fits-all road map. From ethical egoism to utilitarianism, from Kant’s duties to virtue ethics, every ethical theory offers a unique way to navigate the complex question of what’s right. These theories aren’t just competing ideas—they’re different pathways up the same mountain, offering pieces to the puzzle of ethical objectivity. Whether it’s the golden rule, duty, or the pursuit of the greatest good, every ethical theory challenges us to ask what truly guides our moral compass.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 4: Where do gut feelings come from?

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Ethical objectivism isn’t just about external rules; it’s also about listening to our gut feelings—those moments when something feels right or wrong, even if no one else has told us. Our intuition acts as an internal moral barometer, guiding us toward ethical truths that may be hardwired into us. Whether it’s the guilt we feel when we cross a line or the peace we find when we act with integrity, these gut reactions may point to universal truths that transcend culture and time.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 3: What makes the golden rule golden?

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In our exploration of ethical objectivism, we start with the timeless wisdom of the Golden Rule: treat others the way you’d want to be treated. This universal principle has appeared across time, cultures, and societies, proving that some ethical ideas are constant. At its core, it reminds us that kindness, respect, and fairness are values we all understand similarly. Whether cultures differ or norms shift, the Golden Rule remains a powerful starting point for ethical decisions and builds the foundation of ethical objectivism.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 2: Which way is north?

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Today, we continue our exploration of ethical objectivism by looking for a moral compass – a true north that guides us toward a universal understanding of right and wrong. Objectivism suggests that beyond cultural and historical biases, there might be universal truths to help us navigate ethical decisions. Is there a starting point that transcends all the noise? A moral compass to help us find our way?

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 12 – Ethics 2 (Objectivism) – Part 1: Introduction – Are you on the naughty list?

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This week, we shift from ethical relativism to ethical objectivism, exploring the idea that there might be a moral compass that stands firm in the face of shifting cultural norms. Is there a “naughty list” after all—one not determined by culture or location, but one rooted in universal truths? Objectivism suggests that some things are ethically true no matter where or when you live. Is there a true north we can all steer by? Let’s see if we can find it.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 11 – Ethics 1 (Relativism) – Part 7: Summary – Where’s the beef?

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As we wrap up this week, we reflect on how we, as humans, are the rule-makers. With no cosmic referee or divine lawgiver, we create our own ethics based on culture, experience, and time. But while this flexibility can be empowering, it also leaves us wondering: Are we building a sturdy moral house, or just rearranging the furniture? The question of ethical relativism has no simple answer. As we continue to evolve, our ethical rules shift with us, and we are still finding our way.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 11 – Ethics 1 (Relativism) – Part 6: Want to smoke a joint with me?

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Ethical relativism tells us that no matter what the rules say, individuals will always find their own path. Whether it’s following the crowd or lighting up a path of their own, the personal decision-making process is central to ethical life. Tom, Dick, and Harry represent how we navigate rules: from embracing them, to bending them, to rewriting them completely. This is about personal autonomy—even in a society with strict rules, individuals will still make choices based on their values, experiences, and sometimes, a rebellious spirit. Ethics is as personal as it is cultural.

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An Introduction to Philosophy (RLL style) Week 11 – Ethics 1 (Relativism) – Part 5: Is there a right way to have sex?

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Ethics isn’t a static list of rules; it’s a living conversation that grows with us. Just like intimacy norms evolve with culture and understanding, so do all ethical systems. What’s acceptable in one era can be considered scandalous in another, and that’s not moral chaos—it’s the sign of ethics responding to human experience. Whether it’s relationships, societal roles, or the acceptance of LGBTQ+ norms, ethics evolves to reflect our growing understanding of fairness, respect, and consent. The rules aren’t handed down from on high—they’re crafted, challenged, and reshaped by the people living them.

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