...and internet marketing. Drug companies also product a range of other material, including brochures and videos, that are available in doctors office or designed to be given to patients by medical professions or via patient groups.” ("Source Watch") Currently the United States and New Zealand are the only two developed nations that allow direct-to-consumer advertising of pharmaceutical drugs. Other nations feel that direct-to-consumer advertisements are often just sales pitches that pressure doctors to make unnecessary prescriptions. ("Prescription drug ads") I favor direct-to-consumer advertising/marketing of pharmaceutical drugs and believe that it is ethical. In this paper I will be using the deontological ethics of Immanueal Kant' s Theory to support my reasoning. Immanuel Kant developed the most influential deontology. Kant argues that to act in the morally right way, people must act from duty. I favor the direct-to-consumer advertising. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the government's duty is to provide channels for pharmaceutical companies to directly communicate with its consumers. The purpose of this communication is to inform consumers about a...
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...most debated topics in todays Society and it seems that everyone have an opinion on this topic. The real issues at the heart of this matter are how do we answer the question of moral justification? Kant and Stuart Mill, from a philosophical point of view, place their prospective on this issue. Both the theories of Mills and that of Kant permit the death penalty to be a morally permissible punishment. They do this, however, according to very different reasoning. Kant believes that juridical punishment can never be administered merely as a means for promoting an other good but must, in all cases, be imposed only because the individual on whom it is inflicted has committed a crime. Kant was long considered to be an idealist of the retributivist theory of punishment. While he does claim that the only proper justification of punishment is guilt for a crime, he does not limit the usefulness of punishment to retributivist matters. Punishment can have, as its justification, only the guilt of the criminal. Criminals must pay for their crimes, otherwise an injustice has occurred. Retributivist theory holds not only that criminal guilt is required for punishment, but that the appropriate type and amount of punishment is also determined by the crime itself. Kant believes that one man ought never to be dealt with merely as a means subservient to the purpose of another, nor be mixed up with the subjects of real right. Against such treatment, his inborn personality...
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...more important than what is “good”. Deontology believes that ethical rules “bind” people to their “duty”. The word "deontology" itself comes from the Greek "deon" meaning "obligation" or "duty". Deontology was first introduced by Immanuel Kant. The strongest argument for Deontology came from Kant himself. He said that the “highest good” must be essentially “good” and that “thing” can never make something worse. Kant argues that we are subject to moral judgment because we are able to contemplate and give reasons for our actions, so moral judgment should be directed at the reasons for our actions. Though it’s important to make sure our actions make for good consequences, the very consequences of our actions are not liable to our reasons, meaning, our reasoning is not completely responsible for the consequences in which our actions produce. Reasoning is only liable for supporting certain actions, that way only our actions themselves and the motives behind our actions are subject to moral judgment and it is only the actions, and the motives our actions, that are open to moral judgment. So, Kant concluded that there is only one thing in this world that is truly good: a good will that is chosen out of moral duty. Using this concept, Kant came up with what is called a categorical imperative, which is a principle that is completely good; and is something that should be obeyed over all situations and circumstances regardless of consequences that may come from the actual action itself...
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...Deontology is a theory discussed by Immanuel Kants that almost goes against utilitarianism. Unlike utilitarianism which focuses on consequence with no consideration of the action to determine its moral worth, deontology does the exact opposite and believes that the actions should be the deciding factor of morality. Thus, in deontology, an action is independent of the consequences. This brings up the idea of “the good will” where there are specific actions that are considered entirely ‘good’. The good will is based entirely on reason, thus actions that are considered good are particular traits that are good when considered on their own. These actions or characteristics, may be moral by themselves, but can become corrupt if performed or held...
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...likes being deceived by false statements. Kant believes that it is our duty to tell the truth no matter the circumstances. He believes that by lying, regardless of any harm done to either person involved, there was harm done to humanity in general, inasmuch as it vitiates the very source of right (Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals 64-65). I unequivocally disagree with Kant’s view on lying. The premise behind Kant’s theory is morally correct, but there are various circumstances where lying is necessary for the betterment of mankind. Kant is also not consistent with his categorical imperatives with regard to intentional deception as opposed to lying. There is a major discrepancy regarding deception and lying with his moral viewpoint. Where is the line drawn in regard to deception versus lying? Certain situations including the case of the “would be murderer” are examples where disagreement becomes evident and Kant’s absolute moral rule on lying is exploited. The first argument against Kant’s view on lying deals with his belief that all lies harm someone or humanity, either directly or indirectly, and everyone has “a right to the truth” (Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals 64). I disagree with this because in many circumstances small lies are necessary. For example, parents lie to their children about Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny, and many other things. Now this may seem a bit absurd of an argument but Kant would argue that if asked by your child...
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...For the Final research paper, you have asked us to compare our own views of morality with the ethics of two philosophers. I would like to examine Immanuel Kant and Ayn Rand’s moral systems for my essay. At first glance, you could say that these two thinkers seem diametrically opposed, but they actually share some similar views. I’ll start by reviewing some of the details of Immanuel Kant’s moral system. You could say that Kant’s views on morality are just an extreme form of altruism. Kant believed in duty ethics, or the act of judging the morality of an action within the context of a system of laws. He believed that humans alone possessed goodwill, a word which he defined as, “the ability to act in accordance with moral laws regardless of interests or consequences”. (Camoin) Kant credits human emotions with the power to know the greater metaphysical world by indiscernible means that he termed “pure reason.” Pure reason exists in the inexplicable human instinct for duty. Duty is an uncompromising obligation that one “just knows.” Kant held that an action is moral only if a person performs it out of a special sense of duty (MacKinnon 45). Morality is therefore derived through feelings from that metaphysical dimension of reality. That being said, these duties fall within Kant’s two moral codes: The first being that they must be logically consistent, not self-contradictory and that any truths must be universal. On the other hand, we have Ayn Rand, whose philosophies...
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...Abstract Many of the core values of Law Enforcement are found in the theories of Immanuel Kant. Kant’s main theory is that we all have the wisdom to make right decisions. We make those decisions based on our “duty” to morally exhibit good behaviors, regardless of the consequences. The duty of law enforcement officers is to enforce the good will and morals of society. This essay with show the links between Kant and Law Enforcement. INTRODUCTION Every profession is governed by a Code of Ethics. This code is specific to each individual profession, and shows the underlying values of that profession. This code also serves as a behavior guide for business professionals to follow. In a perfect world, everyone would make ethically moral business choices. German philosopher Immanuel Kant developed a moral philosophy/ethical theory based on this. In summary, his theory states that as humans, we are to act moral because, it is our duty to; it is our duty to make good decisions, with respect to the expectations of society, regardless of the consequences. In A Kantian Approach to Business Ethics (2008), Norman E. Bowie writes, “Kant argued the highest good was the good will. To act from a good will is to act from duty. Thus it is the intention behind an action rather than its consequences that make that action good,” (p. 57). From a Kantian perspective, law enforcement is built on the premise of duty, and moral standards. This means that law enforcement...
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...Immanuel Kant believes that the only rational being are humans as they are the only animals able to articulate an argument. I believe this theory to be sound because as humans we are the only animals that can make decisions based on given information or circumstances.The main weakness in his theory is that not all humans are able to speak intelligibly such as infants or the infirm. Also, some animals such as primates are able to articulate needs from much younger ages if not from birth. Peter Singer believes that animals and humans are equal, that we should consider how our decisions will impact all sentient beings and make the choice that benefits the community the best. The biggest weakness to this theory is that humans have a higher ability to process thinking than other animals. Regan states that all animals have an “inherent worth” meaning that they are subjects-of-a-life meaning that they have the right to life as it comes and not be the means to an end. The strength with this theory is that he makes the point that we are not just use non-human animals just for the means to an end, but that if we are to use them we should look at the impact that it will make on the greater picture. His theory however fails to define where the line of inherent worth ends, or even what it means to have inherent worth. In regards to zoos I believe that both Kant and Regan have justifiable arguments in favor of zoos. Zoos can be a touchy subject due to it brings out the aspects of...
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...In Critique of Pure Reason and Critique of Practical Reason Immanuel Kant attempts to reconcile causal determinism on the one hand and human freedom on the other. Kant’s unique argument centers around a distinction between human reason, which originates spontaneously from itself with no previous cause, and its effect on the external world which always has a cause and is part of a causal chain of events. In essence human beings have the freedom to choose a response regardless of the effects of events in the external world. Kant presents cogent and comprehensive argument that is difficult to write off. I will argue in favor or Kant’s position as he does a masterful job in removing what appears to be an obvious contradiction of compatibilism. Kant identifies two forms of causality: causality via the laws of nature, or determinism and causality from freedom of will (Critique of Pure Reason, A532 / B560). Causality from nature is...
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...In the Kantian perspective, the moral foundations are based on deontological background and a priori. Deontology is founded on the basis that the morality of an action is determined by the rules governing people’s duties to one another as human beings. Kant believed that these duties were derived non-empirically from reason within itself (making these duties binding towards everyone equally independent of each person’s experience). The foundation of Kant’s moral law is called the Categorical Imperative which calls for the respect for humanity towards others and oneself regardless of circumstances. To further the belief of his moral perspective, Kant provides three versions of the Categorical Imperative in three separate formulas: the Formula of Universal Law, Formula of Humanity as...
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...and valued differently from individuals who live life according to Ethical and Morality Theories established longtime ago from religious philosophers, philosophers and scholars who claim to understand the way we as “humans” should live, and set fourth curtain rules and guidelines for us to live by. Many would object to these morality views but some of these views have stood the test of time and are still being used today. One philosophers views in particular, Immanuel Kant. He’s known to be one of the greatest philosophers known to man. Kant had his own set of ethical and morality theories that many people still follow today. Which brings us to this case and point, is it ever morally permissible to do a morally wrong action in order for the greater good? I will be discussing Kant’s and my moral views on this particular issue. Immanuel Kant was known for his critique of judgment. Kant said that “human beings have “an intrinsic worth” or dignity” that make the valuable “above all price” Rachel’s (page136). Kant believed that “all of our duties can be derived from one ultimate principle, which he called the Categorical Imperative” Rachel’s (Page137). Categorical Imperative is a moral theory that “ones behavior should accord with universalizable maxims which respect persons as end in themselves; the obligation to do ones duty for its own sake” Collins (Page252) .Is the doctrine that each person ought to pursue his or her own self-interest exclusively” this theory express the condition...
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...Kant on Suicide William is a young man who is currently attending Cornell University. A very bright young man, he started his collegiate career about three years ago pursuing a Bachelor of Science in engineering. William comes from a humble family and he is the first generation in his family to attend college. Currently William’s 6th semester is coming to a close. Before he can start the celebrations and binge drinking, he has to face the daunting task at hand, finals week. As always, William has put all his attention and hard work in hopes of attaining top marks in all his finals which would help keep intact his flawless GPA. He is heavily motivated to better his life as well as his families through education. Recently, William has basically become a hermit in the library where he is constantly reviewing his study material. He wants to make sure he doesn’t miss a thing. The days go by slowly and William starts to take his exams. Staying up late every night to do some last minute studying has become a recent habit. He’s sleep has suffered. William has gotten roughly a couple hours of sleep each night for the past 4 days. Luckily, William takes his last final and lets out a huge sigh of relief. Although a bright student, he never was the most confident individual. William always fears for the worst and worries about the grades he will receive. A week later, the final grades are posted and William hurriedly signs on to his school website in order to check his exam grades...
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...the truth and that to withhold the truth or lie is something that goes against kindness. When an individual tells the truth it can be seen as a utility because it aids in the ability to make an informed decision. Thomasma also makes the point that in all circumstances in individuals default mode should be set to tell the truth. 1B) When it comes to paternalism, Thomasma does stand on the side of strong paternalism regarding medicine. This idea of strong paternalism is supported by the fact that Thomasma holds that idea that one of the most important things to consider is the quality of life. He also argues that withholding the truth over a period of time can be an act of compassion, and can therefore be justified in a temporary scenario in favor of long-term values. This is a case by case scenario, but withholding the truth should be used when considering the quality of life for a patient, especially in cases where an individual may have a terminal condition. 1C) When considering the case of ambisious genitalia requires a delicate approach when approaching the truth. By the biological standard, the woman in the case is not a biological woman, but rather a man with undescended testicles. This provides an ethical dilemma of sorts, and Thomasma brings up the point that eventually she will learn the truth later in life, and through the lies of other it may ruin her life when she does find out. However withholding the truth in this case is trumped by medical ethics even though this truth...
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...Deontological ethics Deontology is a normative theory attributed to Immanuel Kant, which focuses on the concept of the duty. It is concerned on fulfilling what is believed to be a moral duty without considering its impact to other people. It takes the stand that the duty defines the right actions regardless of the consequences. The hold of deontological ethics is that doing right is what conform the moral laws. According to Kant, right actions are not done by following inclinations, impulses or obeying the principle of greatest happiness but are done simply and purely from the sense of duty. Kessler says that some ethical truths and norms are appropriate to everyone in the society, and therefore, people should always act morally irrespective of the outcome for their morals. In deontology ethics, actions are done for the sake of duty. The intrinsic moral feature determines the rightness or wrongness of the act taken by individuals. The duty should always be done by taking the right. For example, duty of a teacher is to benefit a student, and he would like to know the impact of different teaching techniques to the student so as to help him determine the technique which can and cannot benefit the students. Therefore, the rightness of the action is dictated by the rule of the act and not by the outcomes of the act. Rather, outcomes helps to determine the best action to up keep the established duty. Kant says that in doing the right action, it all matters with the altitude towards...
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...to active voluntary euthanasia. To begin, I will start off with Immanuel Kant’s article, “The Morality of Suicide.” Kant first discusses his views on people’s obligations to their own bodies. He talks about the right of freedom that we are all given, and that this freedom is to be used so as to protect life in a way. He argues that using freedom in ways that “abolish life” is “producing lifelessness,” and is therefore “self-contradictory” (385). To sum this part up, Kant believes that human beings should not “have the power to dispose of” their lives (385). After establishing his thoughts in this region, he moved on to that of suicide, which is his almost entirely against. He first comes across the argument saying that suicide is acceptable because “man is a free agent” (385). He counters this argument by explaining that yes man is a free agent, but that we are free to the point of “self-preservation” (385). To me, this means that we do things in life by our own choice, but usually these choices are made with the intent of keeping our own self safe. Kant explains that acting in ways that contradict this theory of protection also contradict that of the first part of his article stating that “men should not have the power to dispose of” their lives (385), where committing the act of suicide would indeed be disposing of one’s own life. The next argument Kant faces follows the thought that suicide...
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