Ethical issues have plagued man for centuries. In an effort to clearly define and determine what constitutes a sound ethical theory, scholars and politicians have debated the virtues of ethics, morals, and principles on many floors throughout history. These, often heated, debates were based upon whatever worldview was held at the time, and were usually centered, as is to be expected, around political or religious motives. In this paper I can only offer my opinion of what ethical theory is the best based upon my Native American heritage, deep-rooted beliefs, and the teachings of my father and elders.
I have chosen as my “best ethical theory” the deontological theory of Immanuel Kant. Kantian theory therefore belies my principles of morality and ethical conduct. and when used in conjunction with Communitarianism, fits well within the framework of the Native American belief system, religion, and moral principles, and therefore in my view acts to enhance the correctness of the Kantian ethical theory.
Kant’s articulation of a “duty” and “universal law” based ethic is quite in tune with my upbringing and beliefs, as is Communitarianism.
Being of Native American heritage, I have an innate respect for the Mother and all of her inhabitants. To me each individual life form on the planet is to be respected, protected and nurtured. Each life form is thought of as a person, an equal, human. These beings are our brothers and sisters and the Creator and Mother Earth gave us life to promulgate respect for all life no matter how insignificant. It is not too unlike the mission in the sci-fi series Star Trek, with a twist. However, our mission is not to search the heavens and aid those in need, (although that may come in a future time); our mission is to search our lives and the lives of our sister and brother beings, human and non-human, on Mother Earth, and give aid, comfort and protection from pain, suffering and extinction. And always giving them the respect and consideration that they deserve as individuals and children of the Creator and Mother Earth. It is our duty!
Kant speaks to duty, respect and “. . . of having equal consideration for others and society as a whole.” Kant further asks that humanity follow the related moral principle of “inherent value of every person” by treating others as “ends” and not “means.” By combining duty, respect and equal consideration Kant weaves a cloak of valuable moral principles for us to follow. Speaking to each individual’s inherent sense of “duty to principle” and the understanding that the “principle itself must be worthy,” Kant outlines a basis that all beings, human and nonhuman, can observe and place into practice.
With regards to Communitarianism, the basis for this movement is community, which is akin to the Native American way of life before the intrusion of the white man. I stress that Communitarianism is not Communism, although some basic principles are the same. The Communitarian viewpoint is much in a tune with Kant’s “duty” and “equal consideration” principles, and therefore should be used as an enhancement to the Kantian theory.
1 Winfrey, John C., Social Issues, “A Social Ethics for Social Issues”, pg 9
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