If I am looking to support my pro capital punishment theories which of the following ethical theories would best support my stance? I must use two.
Absolutism, ethical formalism, utilitarianism, hedonism-stoicism, natural law, ethics of virtue, ethics of care, egoism, cultural relativism, or religious ethics?
Probably either absolutism or egoism. What do you think?
To determine which two ethical theories would best support your pro capital punishment stance, let's go through each one briefly and consider its compatibility with the topic:
1. Absolutism: Absolutism is an ethical theory that promotes the existence of objective moral principles that are universally applicable. It does not specifically address capital punishment, so it may not be the most supportive theory for your stance.
2. Ethical formalism: Ethical formalism asserts that the morality of an action is derived from adhering to a set of universal principles. Similarly to absolutism, ethical formalism does not explicitly address capital punishment.
3. Utilitarianism: Utilitarianism suggests that actions should be based on their overall utility or consequences. In the context of capital punishment, supporters of this theory might argue that it serves as a deterrent, protects society, or provides closure to the victims' families.
4. Hedonism-stoicism: Hedonism focuses on maximizing individual pleasure and minimizing pain, while stoicism emphasizes self-control and indifference to external emotions. Neither of these theories directly connects to the question of capital punishment.
5. Natural law: Natural law asserts that there are inherent moral principles derived from nature that guide ethical decision-making. Supporters of capital punishment might argue that it aligns with the natural law principle of retribution or justice.
6. Ethics of virtue: Virtue ethics emphasizes the development of moral character traits. While it does not explicitly address capital punishment, supporters might argue that the virtues of justice or courage support the practice.
7. Ethics of care: Ethics of care emphasizes relationships, empathy, and mutual dependency. It does not offer specific guidance on capital punishment and might be less supportive of the practice.
8. Egoism: Egoism promotes self-interest as the primary guiding principle. While egoism does not directly address capital punishment, one could argue that supporting it provides personal benefits, such as increased safety or social order.
9. Cultural relativism: Cultural relativism proposes that ethical standards are relative to specific cultures, making it difficult to use this theory to argue for or against capital punishment universally.
10. Religious ethics: Religious ethics draw moral principles from religious texts or beliefs. Depending on the religion, one may find arguments for or against capital punishment. For instance, certain interpretations of religious texts might view it as a just punishment.
Based on the analysis, the ethical theories that could best support your pro capital punishment stance are utilitarianism and natural law. However, it is important to note that every individual's perspective may vary, and different arguments can be made using different ethical theories.