What Is Ethical Decision Making?
Explore what makes a decision ethical, the frameworks for moral reasoning, and how to navigate ethical dilemmas systematically.
January 2026
Philosophical Roots of Critical Thinking
Aristotle developed logic and syllogism. Socrates questioned assumptions. Descartes emphasized doubt. Enlightenment valued reason over authority.
December 2025
What Is a Principle and Why It Matters
Understand what principles are, how they differ from rules and tactics, and why principle-based thinking creates more robust decisions.
October 2025
The History of Systems Thinking
Trace the evolution of systems thinking from ancient philosophy through cybernetics to modern complexity science and organizational theory.
Virtue Ethics Explained
Understand virtue ethics—focusing on character over rules, how virtues develop through practice, and why Aristotle's framework remains relevant.
June 2025
What Is Moral Progress?
Moral progress means expanding ethical consideration and reducing suffering over time. Challenges include defining progress and handling cultural differences.
What Are Values and Why Do They Matter?
Values are core principles guiding choices like honesty, family, or achievement. Not preferences like pizza, but priorities about what matters most in life.
Moral Relativism vs. Moral Universalism
Relativism says ethics vary by culture and context. Universalism claims some moral truths apply everywhere. Both have strengths and serious problems.
Moral Luck: When Ethics Meet Chance
Outcomes affect moral judgment even when control was equal. Drunk driver hitting someone judged harsher than arriving safe despite identical recklessness.
Moral Dilemmas: When All Options Seem Wrong
Trolley problem: kill one to save five. No good options exist. Moral dilemmas force choosing between conflicting values with unavoidable harm.
Deontological Ethics: When Rules Come First
Some actions are inherently right or wrong regardless of consequences. Act only on principles you'd want universal. Duties and rules matter most.
Consequentialism: When Outcomes Justify Actions
Actions are judged by outcomes, not intentions or rules. Utilitarianism maximizes overall good. Ends can justify means if results are better.