Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Which Ethic Is Best?

Based on the definitions of the 4 different kinds of ethics, the best form to use would be a blend of Aristotelian and Kantian ethics. According to Kant, ethics are based on a sense of duty and material gain, self-interest, and the greatest good for the greatest number are all inconsequential. Aristotle's definition is similar to Kant's but is not based on a sense of duty. Aristotle says that concern for material gain and reciprocation is not what is important but the principle of justice and upholding the greater good is the reason to use ethics. He also says that the abandonment of material gain or self-interest is the basis of morality and ethics. Given these definitions, I would say that my next course of action would be to follow Aristotle's words of combining moral wisdom with practical wisdom to receive an ethical outcome and not worry about the backlash that I may encounter. My assignment as the technical communicator is to take the information and disseminate it to the public in an honest, concise, but explanatory way so that they are very well-informed. I cannot concern myself with being afraid of being labeled a "whistle-blower"; I have an obligation to the public to get the information to them. Also, I must write the information in such a way that it encompasses all people and not just a select few that look good on paper. People will be much more receptive to information if they believe that it concerns/applies to them. If you are a Black single mother of three, you are not going to read health-related materials about a White, middle-class, suburban family so it is important to keep the entire audience in mind while I am writing these pamphlets.

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