Ethical Theory and Bioethics - Essay Example

Kantian ethics describe that those acts should be considered as a right which seeks our goodwill. The limitation of this approach is that this good will lies in the motive of the act, and not in the consequences. Kantian ethics revolve around Kant’s principle of Categorical Imperative. Two major formulations of this principle are a formula of the universal law and formula of the end in itself. I think that Kantian ethics are not flexible, and are based on duty rather than consequences. They become a problem in situations where compassion and empathy have to be preferred over duty.

Greek ethics before Socrates focused on ethnic arête in carrying out responsibility efficiently. Ethik arête presented role-defined ethics and formed the basis for many ethical principles. However, Socrates changed this perception, asserting that there have to be distinctive ethic arête for every individual.