Outline for Answer:
I. Introduction
A. Briefly define philosophy and ethics
B. Explain the relationship between philosophy and ethics
II. The Role of Western Philosophy in Guiding Ethics
A. Pre-Socratic Philosophers and Virtue Ethics
1. The influence of thinkers like Socrates and Plato on the concept of virtues and moral character
B. Aristotle's Ethical Theory
1. Aristotle's concept of eudaimonia (human flourishing) and its connection to ethics
2. The importance of virtues in Aristotle's ethical framework
C. Kantian Ethics
1. Immanuel Kant's emphasis on moral duty and the categorical imperative
2. The universalizability principle and its role in ethical decision-making
D. Utilitarianism and Jeremy Bentham
1. The principle of utility and the pursuit of the greatest happiness for the greatest number
E. John Stuart Mill and the Modification of Utilitarianism
1. Mill's distinction between higher and lower pleasures and the refinement of utilitarian ethics
III. How Philosophy Guides Us to Ethics
A. Ethical Theories as Moral Frameworks
1. The various ethical theories provide frameworks for evaluating moral actions and choices
B. Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Making
1. Philosophical inquiry helps individuals and societies navigate complex ethical dilemmas
C. Moral Values and Personal Development
1. Philosophy encourages self-reflection and the development of moral values and character
IV. Criticisms and Limitations of Western Ethical Theories
A. Cultural Relativism and Ethical Pluralism
1. Critiques that Western ethical theories may not apply universally to all cultures
B. Gender and Diversity Perspectives
1. Addressing the limitations of some ethical theories in considering diverse perspectives
V. Contemporary Relevance and Application
A. Applying Philosophical Ethics in Fields like Medicine and Business
1. How philosophical ethics guide decision-making in medical ethics and business ethics
B. Environmental Ethics and the Philosophy of Nature
1. The role of philosophy in shaping our ethical responsibilities towards the environment
VI. Conclusion
A. Recapitulate the role of Western philosophy in guiding ethics
B. Emphasize the ongoing relevance of philosophical inquiry in addressing ethical challenges
C. Call for further exploration and integration of ethical theories to promote ethical decision-making and moral progress.
