MORAL REASONING Meaning and
Definition
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Moral reasoning refers to the cognitive process through which individuals evaluate and make judgments about what is right and wrong, good and bad, or morally acceptable or unacceptable. It involves the application of moral principles, values, and ethical theories to resolve ethical dilemmas or make moral decisions. Moral reasoning is influenced by various factors, such as one's upbringing, cultural background, personal experiences, and societal norms.
In moral reasoning, individuals typically engage in critical thinking to assess and weigh different ethical considerations and perspectives. They try to understand and balance various moral principles and values, such as fairness, justice, autonomy, and well-being, to reach a morally justifiable conclusion. This process often involves reflecting on one's own beliefs and values, considering the interests and well-being of others, and examining the potential consequences of different actions or decisions.
Moral reasoning can be guided by different ethical frameworks or approaches, including consequentialism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics. Consequentialism focuses on the outcomes or consequences of an action, while deontological ethics emphasizes moral duties and principles. Virtue ethics, on the other hand, emphasizes the development of virtuous character traits and ethical behavior.
Overall, moral reasoning plays a crucial role in guiding individuals’ moral beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. It is an essential aspect of ethical decision-making, allowing individuals to navigate complex moral issues and make informed and morally responsible choices.
Etymology of MORAL REASONING
The word "moral" comes from the Latin word "moralis", which means "pertaining to manners or customs" or "ethical". It originated from the Latin word "mos", meaning "custom" or "habit". The term "reasoning" derives from the Old French word "reson", which is rooted in the Latin word "ratio", meaning "calculation", "reason", or "way of thinking". Therefore, the etymology of "moral reasoning" suggests an association between ethical or behavioral customs and the process of logical thinking or justification.
