Applied ethics

Applied ethics is a field of study that examines how ethical theories and moral principles can be used to address real-world problems or questions. In contrast to theoretical ethics which asks abstract questions about what is right and wrong, applied ethics concerns itself with specific and practical questions such as:

• Under what conditions is the use of gene editing technologies such as CRISPR ethically permissible?
• What circumstances dictate whether economic development can be justified over environmental preservation, and vice versa?
• What responsibilities do nations have for providing foreign aid to countries in need?

Applied ethics isn’t just useful for making difficult technological, economic, or international affairs decisions. It can also be a powerful tool for daily life. The Good Place creator Michael Schur, in conversation with Carnegie Council President Joel Rosenthal, describes ethics as the rules for good living.

Should you speak up if your boss is asking you to engage in unethical business practices? Should you buy an electric car, even if it’s more expensive than the “gas-guzzling” alternative? Should you address the misinformation a family member is sharing on social media? These are all questions we face day-to-day and answers to these questions can be found through ethics and self-reflection.

Find articles, podcasts, and off-site resources that explore the value of applied ethics across many contexts below.