In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, ethical dilemmas seem to crop up everywhere. From decisions about AI and privacy to climate change and global inequality, the lines between right and wrong can feel increasingly blurred. The study of philosophy serves as a beacon, enabling us to make sense of and address these intricate questions.
Ethics, at its core, is about determining what we ought to do. Utilitarianism, for example, suggests we act in ways that maximise happiness for the greatest number. Despite its clarity, utilitarianism sometimes opposes values like human rights, as highlighted by philosophers like Kant, who asserted that individuals must always be treated as ends in themselves. These philosophical frameworks provide valuable tools for evaluating modern dilemmas.
Using these principles to address today’s issues helps us tackle moral questions with greater care. How should corporations balance profitability with ecological stewardship? How should governments balance public health and personal freedoms? While philosophical thought may not yield quick answers, it empowers us to engage with these problems thoughtfully. In a complex era, ethics remains our compass, helping us strive for a business philosophy fairer, more just world.