The myth of the “Ring of Gyges

Full Answer Section

• • I would most likely use the ring to do good anonymously. To help people in need, or to expose corruption without anyone knowing it was me.

2. Objections to Relativism:

• Response:
  • Lack of Universal Moral Standards: Relativism posits that morality is subjective and varies across cultures or individuals. This leads to the problem that there are no universal moral standards to judge actions. For example, if a culture accepts human sacrifice, relativism would struggle to condemn it objectively. This removes the possibility of moral progress or criticism of harmful practices.
  • The Problem of Inconsistent Moral Judgments: If morality is entirely relative, then any action can be justified depending on the individual or culture's perspective. This leads to inconsistent moral judgments and the inability to resolve ethical conflicts. For instance, if one person believes stealing is acceptable and another believes it is wrong, relativism provides no framework for determining which view is morally correct.

3. Thoughts on Moral Relativism:

• Response:
  • Moral relativism, while often presented as tolerant, can be inherently intolerant. While it promotes the idea that "different cultures have different morals" it also shuts down the ability to question those morals. I believe it is a very flawed system.
  • While it seemingly promotes tolerance by avoiding judgment of other cultures, it can lead to intolerance by preventing meaningful dialogue and criticism of harmful practices. If all moral beliefs are equally valid, then there is no basis for challenging oppressive or discriminatory practices.
  • True tolerance involves respecting diverse perspectives while also upholding fundamental human rights and values. Moral relativism, in its extreme form, can undermine these values by suggesting that anything goes, as long as it is culturally accepted. I believe that there are some universal morals that should be upheld, and that some cultural practices are wrong.

4. Ethical Egoism vs. Psychological Egoism:

• Prompt Choice: What is the difference between ethical egoism and psychological egoism? Completely explain the difference and give examples for each, explaining how these examples exemplify each type of egoism.
• Response:
  • Psychological Egoism:
    • This is a descriptive theory that states that all human actions are inherently motivated by self-interest. It argues that even seemingly altruistic acts are ultimately driven by a desire for personal gain, whether it's feeling good, avoiding guilt, or gaining social approval.
    • Example: A person donates to charity, not out of genuine concern for others, but to experience a "warm glow" or to enhance their reputation.
  • Ethical Egoism:
    • This is a normative theory that argues that individuals should act in their own self-interest. It claims that it is morally right to pursue one's own happiness and well-being, even if it comes at the expense of others.
    • Example: A business owner prioritizes maximizing profits, even if it means laying off employees or engaging in environmentally harmful practices, because they believe it is their moral duty to act in their own self-interest.

5. Four Attractions of Utilitarianism:

• Response:
  • Focus on Happiness: Utilitarianism's central principle is maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering. This aligns with the common human desire for well-being.
  • Impartiality: Utilitarianism requires that everyone's happiness be considered equally, regardless of their social status, race, or gender.
  • Flexibility: Utilitarianism provides a flexible framework for addressing diverse ethical dilemmas. It can be applied to various situations by weighing the potential consequences of different actions.
  • Consequentialism: It is based on consequences. This makes it easy to understand, and to apply to real world problems. People naturally think about the consequences of actions.

Sample Answer

. The Ring of Gyges:

• Prompt Choice: Recall the myth of the “Ring of Gyges.” What would you do if you found a magical ring like Gyges and why?
• Response: If I found the Ring of Gyges, I would not use it for personal gain or to commit unethical acts. While the temptation to act without consequence would be immense, my reasoning is rooted in the following:
  • Integrity and Character: True character is revealed not in the absence of temptation but in the ability to resist it. Using the ring for selfish purposes would erode my moral compass.
  • Societal Impact: Even if undetected, unethical actions have ripple effects. The erosion of trust and the potential for harm to others outweigh any personal benefit.
  • Psychological Burden: The constant need to conceal actions and the guilt associated with unethical behavior would create a significant psychological burden.