Dr. T. Govier (Canada)
Reasoning about cases
1. Ethical considerations extend to people generally and should not be focused exclusively or selectively on a concern for one's own self, people, or nation. Concepts and principles from various domains of life are considered in ethical reasoning. However, ethical reasoning as such is not to be identified with:
a. theological reasoning
b. ideological or political reasoning
c. legal reasoning
d. descriptions of social convention
2. In situations of conflict, any strong sense of the absolute righteousness of our own group should be critically explored. In exploring relevant facts and interpretations, it is crucial to recall that the truth may not be what we would like to believe.
3. It is generally useful to clarify meanings, consider one's point of view, and identify and explore background assumptions.
4. Considering specific cases is revealing because when we do so important questions tend to arise. These questions concern the need for clarification of concepts and facts, and respects in which purportedly universal principles need to be amended.
5. From a logical perspective, ethical reasoning can proceed along any of the following lines:
a. deductive (a case is subsumed under a universal moral principle)
b. inductive (a case is considered with regard to a general claim, extrapolated from other similar cases)
c. abductive (an argument is made about the case, along the lines of ‘inference-to-the-best-explanation')
d. conductive (reasons for and against are considered and evaluated for their relevance and significance)
e. analogical (the primary case is considered in the light of an analogue case, and one reasons to a conclusion on the basis of relevant similarities and differences)
References :
- Richard Paul and Linda Elder, The Miniature Guide to Understanding the Foundations of Ethical Reasoning . Foundation for Critical Thinking. Rohnert Park, CA. Third Edition 2005.
- Trudy Govier, A Practical Study of Argument . Belmont, CA: Wadsworth 2005. Sixth Edition.
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