Ethics and Moral Reasoning

800-1000 words–each question must be answered thoroughly with evidence.

Citations Required

Textbook: Mosser, K. (2013). Understanding philosophy [Electronic version]. Retrieved from https://content.ashford.edu/

Why be good?

Glaucon (in the “Ring of Gyges” selection from Plato’s Republic) says that we obey the laws or act justly only from fear of punishment. Provide four reasons for obeying the law or ethical principles that do not involve punishment or reward. Is there a difference between people who obey the law out of fear and those who obey the law out of a sense of duty or character? What are those differences? When is it acceptable not to obey the laws? What types of laws ought we obey and which ought we disregard? Be sure to back up your answers with information you have learned from the readings in the week.