Philosophy · Grade 11 · Ethics and Moral Philosophy · 3.º Período

Normative Ethical Theories

This topic introduces major ethical theories, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. Students apply these theories to hypothetical moral dilemmas.

TL;DR:Normative ethical theories provide the 'rules' for how we should act. Students study major frameworks like Utilitarianism (consequences), Deontology (duty), and Virtue Ethics (character). The Ontario curriculum requires students to summarize these theories and apply them to various moral dilemmas, helping them develop a toolkit for ethical decision-making.

• Ontario Curriculum Expectations
• HZB3M D2.1: Summarize key normative ethical theories
• HZB3M D2.2: Apply ethical theories to various moral dilemmas

About This Topic

Normative ethical theories provide the 'rules' for how we should act. Students study major frameworks like Utilitarianism (consequences), Deontology (duty), and Virtue Ethics (character). The Ontario curriculum requires students to summarize these theories and apply them to various moral dilemmas, helping them develop a toolkit for ethical decision-making.

In Canada, these theories are often applied to public policy debates, from healthcare allocation to environmental protection. By practicing with these frameworks, students learn that ethical problems often have multiple 'right' answers depending on which theory you prioritize. This topic is perfectly suited for role plays and mock trials where students must defend a course of action using a specific ethical lens.

Key Questions

1. Should we judge actions by their consequences or their intentions?
2. What duties do we owe to others?
3. How does one develop a virtuous character?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Utilitarianism is just being selfish and doing what's best for me.

What to Teach Instead

Utilitarianism is about the greatest good for the *greatest number*, often requiring personal sacrifice. Active learning simulations that involve resource distribution can help students feel the 'weight' of the majority's needs.

Common Misconception

Deontology is just following the law.

What to Teach Instead

Deontology is about following universal moral duties, which might sometimes conflict with the law. Peer discussions about 'civil disobedience' can help clarify this distinction.

Active Learning Ideas

Role Play

The Ethical Committee

Students are placed on a committee to decide a difficult case (e.g., who gets a life-saving organ). Each student is assigned an ethical theory (Utilitarian, Kantian, Virtue Ethicist) and must argue for a solution based on that theory.

60 min·Small Groups

Formal Debate

The Trolley Problem Variations

Present different versions of the Trolley Problem. Students must vote on the 'right' action for each and then justify their choice using the vocabulary of normative ethics (e.g., 'the greatest good' or 'categorical imperative').

45 min·Whole Class

Inquiry Circle

Virtue Ethics in Action

Groups choose a Canadian 'hero' or public figure and analyze their actions through the lens of Virtue Ethics. What virtues did they demonstrate? What would a 'mean' or 'deficiency' of that virtue look like?

50 min·Small Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

How can active learning help students understand normative ethical theories?

Ethical theories can feel like a list of 'dry' rules until students have to use them to solve a problem. By putting students in role-play scenarios where they *must* use a specific theory to make a decision, they experience the strengths and flaws of that theory firsthand. This 'learning by doing' makes the differences between Kant and Mill much clearer than a lecture ever could.

Which ethical theory do Grade 11 students usually find easiest to understand?

Utilitarianism is often the most intuitive because students are used to 'weighing the pros and cons.' However, Virtue Ethics often resonates more deeply because it focuses on the kind of person they want to become.

How do I handle the 'Trolley Problem' without it feeling repetitive?

Use modern variations, like self-driving car algorithms or healthcare triage during a pandemic. This makes the classic thought experiment feel urgent and relevant to their future.

Can I teach these theories through a Canadian lens?

Absolutely. Use Canadian case studies like the 'Robert Latimer' case for Utilitarianism vs. Deontology, or the actions of Canadian peacekeepers for Virtue Ethics.