Assignment
Learning Activity #1 - Is it possible that all people have common moral and/or ethical values? Compare and contrast Moral/ethical Universalism (that we do have common values) with Ethical Relativism and consider how this course materials bring up ideas that support the idea of a common morality, but that we also see cultural differences, especially when it comes to different business practices. How should we approach a business situation where this kind of conflict is presented?
You will want to consider how the three ethical theories we have been concentrating on (Kant's deontological approach, the teleological Utilitarian approach and the teleological Virtue Ethical approach) would analyze morality, as either universal or relative. Which is it? (Remember that "relative" is always relative to something, whether relative to a particular culture or relative to a particular, subjective individual)
Is there a way for us to reconcile these two apparently dichotomous beliefs? If so, how? If not, how do we live together with those who do not share our ethical beliefs? Knowing human nature, will not the lowest or least burdensome standard always prevail?
Discuss
Learning Activity #2 - Respond to the Case Study described in MIT Technology Review: "Why Self-Driving Cars must be Programmed to Kill" (October 22, 2015). The other case studies in this week's readings should help you shape your argument in this particular case.
It will be up to you how to determine how you will approach your response and ethical analysis in this Learning Activity; I'm not going to post any pointed questions to help direct your thoughts this time. This will be good practice for the approach you will take for your final project!
Attachment:- Notes-and-Reading-Global-Ethics.rar