Introduction:
Morals and ethics are like guides that help us know what is right and what is wrong. Morals are our own personal beliefs, and ethics are about using those beliefs in society. Understanding right and wrong can be complicated. We think about questions such as whether morals are the same for everyone and how our own values affect our choices. We also explore difficult situations where we have to make good decisions. This section is here to discuss these topics and help us become better at making ethical choices. By learning about morals and ethics, we can make wiser decisions and understand ourselves and the world better.
Vocabulary and Expressions
Vocabulary:
Morals and Ethics: Morality, ethics, principles, values, virtues, moral compass, ethical dilemmas, ethical standards.
Right and Wrong: Conscience, morality, ethical behavior, wrongdoing, integrity, dishonesty, immorality, moral relativism.
Values and Virtues: Integrity, honesty, respect, empathy, fairness, compassion, responsibility, justice.
Ethical Dilemmas: Conundrum, quandary, ethical conflict, moral ambiguity, ethical decision-making, moral reasoning.
Expressions:
To wrestle with moral issues.
To have a strong moral compass.
To be ethically upright.
To grapple with ethical dilemmas.
To uphold moral values.
ESL Questions:
Is it ever okay to lie? If so, when and why?
If you discovered that a popular product you use daily was produced unethically (e.g., using child labor or harming the environment), would you continue to use it? Why or why not?
Is it ethical to use animals for testing products or scientific research?
Should companies be allowed to patent life-saving medications, potentially limiting access to those who cannot afford them? Why or why not?
Is it ethical to download or share copyrighted content (music, movies, etc.) without permission?
Do you believe that individuals have a moral obligation to vote in political elections? Why or why not? License???
Is it ethical for companies to collect personal data about their customers for marketing purposes?
Should governments have the right to monitor and regulate the Internet?
Is it acceptable to use social media to publicly shame someone for their behavior? filming people
Is it ethical to use performance-enhancing drugs in sports, even if they are legal? study?5/10
If a close friend or family member asked you to lie for them to avoid getting into trouble, would you do it? Under what circumstances would you refuse?
Should wealthy individuals and corporations be required to donate a portion of their wealth to help those in need?
Is it ethical to eat meat, considering the impact on animal welfare and the environment?
Is capital punishment (the death penalty) morally justifiable in some cases? Why or why not?
Is it ethical for parents to use technology to track their children's location and online activity?
Should individuals have a right to physician-assisted suicide in cases of terminal illness?
Is it ethical to use genetic engineering to modify unborn babies for reasons other than preventing serious health problems?
Do you believe that it is ethical to impose economic sanctions on a country, even if it may lead to suffering for innocent civilians? Why or why not?
Do you believe that certain types of speech should be censored or restricted to protect the well-being of individuals or society as a whole? Why or why not?
Extra Stuff
Homework
Write a short paragraph reflecting on a time when you faced an ethical dilemma and describe how you resolved it. Discuss the principles or values that guided your decision-making process and the outcome of your choice.