Comments on virtue theory, utilitarianism, Deontology.

These Philosophical theories deal with human behavior. This is an area that is open to much discussion and seldom is there universal agreement. Virtue theory is about assessing the character of an individual based on the moral and ethical decisions that are dominate in their lives, rather than assessing character based on a single act or behavior. We speak of moral and ethical individuals by their perceived behavior choices. It becomes difficult to differentiate between what is moral and what is ethical.

Utilitarianism is about assessing the acts of individuals as to how they affect and impact a larger group. Acts are measured by their value of good or bad, dependent on the consequences or the results that inure to the larger group. The individual’s value is subordinate to that of the social group. So when one is faced with moral dilemmas that could be beneficial to the individual but potential harm to the greater group then the choice under utilitarianism is clear.

Deontology deals more with the individual assessment of what they feel is the right thing to do regardless of the consequences. The intent of and act or behavior is of greater value to measure wrongs and rights than do the consequences derived from the act or behavior. I can justify lying, if by lying I can prevent someone from experiencing pain or discomfort.

All these theories deal with the assessment of what are acceptable acts committed by individuals and all are trying to establish a basis of rights and wrongs. Their differences lye within the approach used to make these determinations. The questions and issues wrestled with is to identify what is right and what is wrong? If we measure it subjectively we simply accept the notion that we all have in inert understanding as human beings what is wrong and what is right. We