he outlawing of slavery and extending voting rights to women seem to indicate that ethics can have beneficial results. Give an example from the past that indicates a similar result or a current social policy that might be regarded as wrong, which therefore needs to be changed. Give your reasons and indicate which ethical theory you believe provides the best support for your view.
In my opinion, it's a crime that health care and health care insurance costs so much and that so many people don't have health insurance. Most industrialized nations tax everyone so that everyone can have free health care.
One idea that could be explored is how our country's First Amendment is currently read and interpreted. Here's the text:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
One type of action I see and read about all over our country lately indicates to me that people are forgetting about six particular words in there: "...or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..."
In addition, many people, including lawyers and judges in various places use the phrase "separation of church and state" out of context and without understanding its origin. Those words are not anywhere in the Constitution or any Amendment. They originated in a letter written by Thomas Jefferson in 1802:
On January 1, 1802, Jefferson wrote the Danbury Baptists, assuring them that "the First Amendment has erected a wall of separation between church and state."
His letter explained that they need not fear the establishment of a national denomination—and that while the wall of the First Amendment would protect the church from government control—there always would be open and free religious expression of all orthodox religious practices, for true religious expression of all orthodox religious practices, for true religious duties would never threaten the purpose of government. That the government would interfere with a religious activity was a direct menace to the government or to the overall peace and good order of society. (Later Supreme Court identified potential "religious" activities in which the government might interfere: things like human sacrifice, bigamy or polygamy, the advocation of immorality or licentiousness, etc. If any of these activities were to occur in the name of "religion," then the government would interfere, for these were activities which threaten public peace and safety; but with orthodox religious practices, the government would not interfere).
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/987191/posts
You must decide what ethical theory you will write about. Ms. Sue and I have given you two to consider. Let us know what you write. =)
One example from the past that demonstrates the beneficial results of ethical change is the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. This movement aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination, providing equal rights and opportunities to African Americans. As a result, landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were enacted, outlawing racial discrimination and ensuring voting rights for African Americans.
These changes were necessary because they rectified deep-rooted injustices, opened avenues for social equality, and laid the foundation for a more inclusive society. The ethical theory that best supports this view is the principle of justice, which prioritizes fairness and equality for all individuals. By extending civil rights to African Americans, the ethical framework acknowledges their inherent value, affirms their right to equal treatment, and promotes a more just society.
In terms of a current social policy that may be regarded as wrong and in need of change, one example is the treatment of undocumented immigrants in many countries. Many view the strict immigration policies, lack of comprehensive immigration reform, and hostile rhetoric surrounding immigration as ethically problematic.
From an ethical standpoint, the principle of compassion and human rights can provide the strongest support for advocating a change in these policies. This ethical theory emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their immigration status. By prioritizing compassion and human rights, policies can be developed to provide a more humane and fair approach to immigration, addressing the concerns of undocumented immigrants while also considering the interests of the host country.
It's important to note that ethical theories can vary, and different individuals may have different perspectives on which theory provides the best support for their views. The examples provided align with commonly referenced ethical frameworks, but it's important to engage in ongoing discussions and debates to explore diverse perspectives and find common ground for ethical decision-making.