Image for Ross's Principles of Ethics

Ross's Principles of Ethics

Ross’s Principles of Ethics, also known as prima facie duties, are foundational moral commitments that guide right action. They include duties like fidelity (keeping promises), reparation (making up for wrongs), gratitude, justice, beneficence (helping others), and self-improvement. These duties are not absolute; instead, they can sometimes conflict, and moral judgment involves balancing them. Essentially, Ross suggests we use these principles as ethical checks to determine what is right in complex situations, emphasizing that moral decisions often require careful consideration rather than strict rules.