Ethical Theories Analytical Essay by Shaad

This essay presents a categorical overview of the debate on ethics. It begins with the division between consequentialist and non-consequentialist ethics. In the first category are considered ethical egoism, utilitarianism and intuitionism. It argues that all these positions are subjective and selfish, and therefore are dubiously ethical. Among the second category are considered Aristotle's virtue ethics, Kantian duty and Ross' prima facie duties. Stress is laid on the disinterested nature of such ethics. It is then described how modern ethical theories elevate practice over theory. Among the modern theories discussed are virtue theory, care ethics, feminist ethics and communicative ethics. Each is shown to emerge from a specific context of modern life. Finally, modern theories are shown to be largely consequentialist.