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Lehnmann's Definition of Christian Ethics: Lehnmann defines Christian ethics as a framework that guides moral behavior based on the teachings of Christianity and its understanding of human nature and ultimate purpose. He emphasizes a relationship with God, moral values derived from scripture, and the example of Jesus Christ.
The two distinctions he makes are:
- Descriptive Ethics: This involves observing and analyzing the moral practices and beliefs of Christians historically and presently.
- Prescriptive Ethics: This aspect focuses on what Christians ought to do, drawing from biblical teachings and theological principles to guide moral behavior.
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Samuel Waje Kunhiyop's Distinction: Samuel Waje Kunhiyop explains the differences between African and Western ethics in terms of their foundational emphases. African ethics tends to focus on community and relational aspects, valuing the well-being of the family and community over individual autonomy. It emphasizes moral responsibilities and communal interdependence. In contrast, Western ethics often emphasizes individual rights and personal autonomy, focusing on the individual as the primary moral agent and decision-maker. This distinction highlights how culture shapes ethical perspectives and behaviors.
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Five Process Steps of Ethical Decision Making: The five steps of ethical decision-making typically include:
- Recognizing the Ethical Issue: Identifying situations that involve a moral question or dilemma.
- Gathering Information: Collecting relevant information and understanding the context surrounding the decision.
- Evaluating Alternatives: Considering different options and their implications, or potential outcomes, including the perspectives of affected stakeholders.
- Making a Decision: Choosing an option based on the evaluation of alternatives and ethical principles.
- Reflecting on the Decision: Assessing the outcomes of the decision and learning from the process for future ethical considerations.
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Ethics Which Begins with the End of Man: This ethical framework posits that moral decisions should be guided by the ultimate purpose or end goal of human existence. In this view, actions are evaluated based on how well they fulfill human potential, foster flourishing, and promote a meaningful life aligned with both individual and communal good. This perspective often incorporates notions of virtue and the intrinsic value of human dignity, allowing ethical considerations to flow from the desired outcomes for individuals and society.
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Ethics of Obedience: The ethics of obedience is grounded in adherence to established rules, laws, commandments, or directives from authority. In this ethical framework, moral behavior is evaluated based on compliance with these precepts rather than the outcomes or intentions behind actions. It emphasizes duty and loyalty to the authority that establishes the norms, often reflecting a hierarchical understanding of morality where obedience leads to ethical behavior. This can be seen in religious contexts, where believers view adherence to divine commandments as essential to moral conduct.
1. How does Lehnmann define Christian ethics? What 2 distinctions does he make?
2. Samuel Waje Kunhiyop makes a distinction between the emphases of African and western ethics. How does he explain this?
3. What are the 5 process steps of ethical decision making we learned in this lesson?
4. Explain the ethics which begins with the end of man.
5. Explain the ethics of obedience.
1 answer