moral compass

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 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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