2. Moral Theories

This chapter introduces four moral theories—utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, and care ethics. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach, the chapter emphasizes the importance of understanding these theories as tools that illuminate different aspects of morality. Utilitarianism focuses on outcomes and maximizing well-being but struggles with measuring suffering and justifying harm to minorities. Deontology, grounded in duty and rational principles, values intention and respect for persons but can lead to rigid or counterintuitive conclusions. Virtue ethics centers on character and moral development through habituation and context-sensitive judgment, offering a richer picture of morality but raising questions about cultural differences and applicability to specific dilemmas. Care ethics, emerging from feminist critiques, prioritizes relationality, vulnerability, and responsiveness to others’ needs, expanding ethical reflection beyond abstract rules to include lived experiences and interdependence.