Ethics, Morality, and Human Rights: A Deep Dive
Ethics, Morality, and Rights
Defining Ethics and Morality
Ethics is the discipline that reflects on different forms of morality and judges their validity. Morality, on the other hand, is the set of rules of conduct that guides our way of life. It provides the norms and values that enable us to respond effectively to everyday challenges.
Understanding Rights
Rights are fundamental entitlements that protect our dignity as individuals. They are recognized and protected by political power through relevant laws.
Factors Influencing Conduct
- Impulse: Involuntary urges that prompt us to perform simple actions.
- Feelings: Positive or negative attitudes towards others.
- Reason: The ability to anticipate the consequences of our actions.
- Volition: The faculty by which we make and implement decisions, even if they don’t align with our desires.
Ethical Theories
- Hedonism: Happiness consists in enjoying pleasure and avoiding pain.
- Utilitarianism: Seeking the greatest good for the greatest number of individuals.
- Stoicism: Acting in accordance with reason and duty.
- Kantian Ethics: An action is morally good if it is done out of duty.
Human Rights and Constitutional Values
Human Rights
Human Rights are fundamental rights that protect our dignity as individuals. These rights are recognized by political powers and enshrined in law.
Principles of Human Rights
Every human being possesses basic rights that must be respected, particularly by those in positions of political power.
The Constitution
The Constitution is the supreme law of a country, formed through broad agreement among political forces.
Constitutional Values
- Freedom: The capacity to act autonomously while respecting the law and the rights of others.
- Equality: Equal treatment under the law and equal living conditions for all.
- Solidarity: Citizens contributing according to their abilities to ensure everyone enjoys equally worthy living conditions.
Society, Globalization, and Democracy
Traditional vs. Modern Society
Traditional societies are based on uncritically accepted traditions. Modern societies emerged from transformations beginning in the late 18th century.
Globalization
Globalization is the latest phase of interconnectedness, gaining momentum with the Industrial Revolution.
Democracy
Democracy is a political regime where state power originates from the people, often exercised through representatives.
Origins of Democracy
The word “democracy” comes from the Greek “démocratie,” meaning “power of the people.” The French Revolution raised awareness of the injustice of political marginalization.
Principles of Democracy
Democratic doctrine resides in the entire population, not a privileged group. The government is accountable to the people.
Government Branches
- Senate: Responsible for passing laws.
- Parliament: Represents the people and the state legislature.
- Government: The executive body, including the president, vice president, and ministers.
- Constitutional Court: Judges appeals against laws.
- Administration: Implements executive decisions while respecting the law.