Five Elements of Normative Ethics

Synonyms

Ethical theory, Moral theory, Practical philosophy

Introduction

All adequate normative-ethical theories have to contain the following five elements: (I.) normative individualism, i.e., the view that in the last instance moral norms and values can only be justified by reference to the individuals concerned, as its basis; (II.) consideration of the individuals’ concerns and interests – aims, desires, needs, and strivings – insofar as they have a justificatory function; (III.) a pluralism of references of these concerns and hence of moral norms and values to all possible elements of actions; (IV.) the necessity of a principle of aggregation and weighing with regard to these concerns; (V.) finally, as a central principle of aggregation and weighing, the principle of relative reference to self and others, operating as a generalizing metaprinciple that guides the application of concrete principles and decisions (von der Pfordten 2010, 2012).

I. Normative Individualism

Normative...