ETHC445 2019 November Week 2 Discussion Latest
ETHC445 Principles of Ethics
Week 2 Discussion
The Struggle of Good vs. Evil
Textbook: Chapter 3, 4, 12 (section: “The Medieval Period”)
Lesson
Minimum of 1 scholarly source
Introduction
Personal struggles with one’s own tendencies, desires, lusts,
and self-interest have placed people in conflict with other people
and their own communities farther back than any of us can
read. We read about the struggles of others in history – what
about ourselves? Yes, us! What about our experiences of
being ourselves? When we look back in history, we find people who
are not so different from us – struggling with their human nature –
and trying to live ethical lives in whatever way they can do
so. They aspire to live ethical lives and find themselves
failing again and again.
St. Augustine in the 5th Century held that although we feel
free to make choices in life, our true nature as human beings
includes a persistent disregard for what is good. On this view, we
are sinners whose only hope for redemption lies in the gracious
love of a merciful deity. Whatever I do on my own, Augustine would
argue, is bound to be wrong; whatever I do right, must be performed
by God through me.
St. Thomas Aquinas in the 13th Century brought Aristotle’s
theories back into vogue, soon after St. Augustine’s death (if 800
years is soon, that is.) He allowed humanity to have a bit of
secularity along with faith, and his ethics allows for a Natural
Law, which can be found in the heart of man. Be sure to
listen to the audio simulation in this week’s lesson before posting
in this discussion.
Initial Post Instructions
For the initial post, consider the sophistication and
technology of the 21st century. Examine how the medieval account of
human nature aligns with your own experience of human action. That
is, do you observe (in yourself and others) an inclination toward
evil instead of toward good? Explain and analyze your observations.
Bring in examples of scenarios that bolster your view or that tend
to bring your view (or others) into question.
Follow-Up Post Instructions
Respond to at least two peers or one peer and the instructor.
Further the dialogue by providing more information and
clarification.
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