3.6 Feminist ethics and the ethics of care

Feminist ethics and the ethics of care is a recent challenge to the traditional moral theories that emphasize abstract principles such as justice, rights, impartiality and reasoning.  Caring for those closest to us, family and friends, is an essential part of morality and most influential theories have not addressed the complexities of real-world ethical situations.  

We enjoyed this section of the book.  However, while we objected to the apparent stereotyping of women within this moral theory, we wholeheartedly agreed that kindness and compassion have been neglected in the theories of the great male philosophers.  We believe that caring qualities are just as prevalent in men as in women but culture and societal expectations play a significant role in shaping our actions. We are dependent on one another throughout our lives.  

Emotions such as anger at inhumane treatment can be an immediate guide to justice and we can then rationalise our response. The law has been set up to be impartial but people who care deeply may feel compelled to break it.  We recognised this tension as that described in Aristotle's concept of the Golden Mean. 

3.8 Confucianism

Our discussion about Confucianism followed on well from Feminist Ethics as he taught a humanistic doctrine centred on social relationships. His aim was the creation of harmony and virtue.  Veneration of ancestors is particularly important!

We were especially taken by his theory that an ideal society is created through following Li, being ethical behaviours of ritual and right action and also Ren, which highlights social virtues like kindness and generosity.

We noted the contrast between Western philosophy, which has a strong respect for individual rights, with Confucianism, which emphasizes the importance of yielding to the group.