Moral Principles
Principles of Moral Reasoning
The Principles of Sufficient Moral Reason
If an action is morally permissible, then there exists a moral reason that suffices to explain why the action is morally permissible.
If an action is morally obligatory, then there exists a moral reason that suffices to explain why the action is morally obligatory.
If an action is morally impermissible, then there exists a moral reason that suffices to explain why the action is morally impermissible.
The Principles of Moral Analogy
If one of any two actions which are similar in all morally relevant respects is morally permissible, then so is the other.
If one of any two actions which are similar in all morally relevant respects is morally obligatory, then so is the other.
If one of any two actions which are similar in all morally relevant respects is morally impermissible, then so is the other.
Moral Principles
The Principle of Nonmaleficence
We should avoid causing needless harm to others by our actions.
The Principle of Beneficence
We should promote the welfare of others by our actions.
The Principle of Autonomy
We should allow rational people to be self-determining, except possibly where:
The Harm Principle
Autonomy should be restricted if, by doing so, we act to prevent harm to others.
Weak Paternalism
An individual's autonomy should be restricted if, by doing so, we act to prevent the individual from doing harm to him or herself.
Strong Paternalism
An individual's autonomy should be restricted if, by doing so, we act to benefit the individual.
The Welfare Principle
Autonomy should be restricted if it is done so with the expectation of a substantial benefit to others.
The Principle of Justice
We should treat similar cases in similar ways, possibly according to:
The Principle of Equality
Benefits and burdens should be equally distributed.
The Principle of Need
Those with greater need should receive more benefits so as attain an eventual equilibrium.
The Principle of Contribution
Everyone should benefit according to the extent to which they produce.
The Principle of Effort
Everyone should benefit according to the extent of their efforts.
*Portions adapted from Intervention and Reflection: Basic Issues in Medical Ethics. 5th ed. ed. Ronald Munson (Belmont; Wadsworth 1996)