Understanding the Essence of Philosophical Ethics: What We Value vs. What We Should Value

When studying philosophical ethics, one question often arises: what’s the difference between what we value and what we should value? It’s a question that strikes at the heart of ethical theory and moral reasoning. Now, before you shrug this off as just another academic debate, let’s unpack why it matters to you—yes, you—especially if you’re gearing up for the Western Governors University (WGU) BUS3000 C717 Business Ethics Pre-assessment Practice Exam.

You see, philosophical ethics dives deep into the fabric of our beliefs, separating our existing values from those we ought to adopt for the greater good. What do I mean by that? Well, think of it this way; you might value flexibility and leisure at work because, hey, who wouldn’t love to work in pajamas? But should you value results and professionalism, especially when it comes to meeting deadlines or collaborating with a team? That’s where ethical considerations come into play.

What We Value vs. What We Should Value

Understanding this distinction involves peeling back layers of our personal biases and societal influences. After all, many individuals accept values simply because their community, family, or culture promotes them. But philosophical ethics pushes us to critically evaluate these norms. In essence, it challenges us to reflect on our chosen values against objective moral principles.

Let’s flesh this out further. Imagine a workplace scenario where an employee witnesses unethical behavior—maybe a coworker slackin’ off while others pick up the slack. If we merely accept what we value (the desire for a harmonious workplace), we might choose to ignore the issue. However, when we consider what we should value (fairness and accountability), it nudges us toward action. It’s that moment of moral clarity that can lead to tough conversations but ultimately enhances the ethical landscape of our work environments.

The Impact of Ethical Distinction on Decision-Making

But hold on, what’s the real-world impact of this distinction? Good question! Whenever you’re faced with ethical dilemmas, whether in personal life or professional settings, this distinction serves as a compass. It pushes you to reconsider your predispositions and make decisions that align more closely with moral reasoning than narrow self-interests or default societal norms.

Think of philosophical ethics as the practice of constantly asking: “Is this value unbiased? Is it beneficial to all, or just a few?” As students preparing for the BUS3000 C717, you’re encouraged to hone this critical lens. It’s not just about checking the boxes on an exam; it’s about developing a refined moral compass that will serve you for years to come, influencing everything from business strategies to community engagements.

In Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Reflection

Ultimately, the journey through philosophical ethics isn’t just an academic exercise; it’s a reflective journey into your own values, your community, and the greater world. It challenges you to scrutinize the foundations upon which you make decisions. So, the next time you’re faced with a choice—perhaps a business decision that impacts many—take a moment to ask yourself: “What should we value here?”

This reflection not only paves the way for ethical decision-making but also for a healthier, fairer community and workplace. It’s this exploration that not only helps you on the WGU BUS3000 C717 but also equips you for a life of principled decision-making.