Ethical theory and bio ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ethical theory and bio ethics - Essay Example Kantian ethics revolve around Kant’s principle of Categorical Imperative. Two major formulations of this principle are: 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 has to be preferred over duty. Greek ethics before Socrates focused on ethike arà ªte in carrying out a responsibility efficiently. Ethike arà ªte presented role-defined ethics, and formed the basis for many ethical principles. However, Socrates changed this perception, asserting that there have to be distinctive ethike arà ªte for every individual. I feel this change was important to shift from a broader sense of ethical characteristics to a narrow one. For example, Greek ethics before Socrates tended to ask, â€Å"What are the good traits of a physician?’ Socrates changed this to a narrow sense as, â€Å"What are the good traits of a person who seeks to be a