Question

Psychologist Carol Gilligan did research on women and discovered that men and women think in radically different ways when making moral decisions. Men and women take different approaches she calls the "ethic of justice" and the "ethic of care," respectively. Read Annette Baier's selection ("The Need for more Than Justice"). First, please explain what the "ethic of justice" tradition involves and all the ways in which the "ethic of care" contrasts with it.

Answer 1

Ethics of justice involves impartiality, moral reasoning and benefits to more number of people. Men normally think of justice as their sole way of doing things, thus do not base their decisions on emotions. They stay away from emotions, relationships and act according to the universal law that is applicable to everyone. Women on the other hand base their decisions on emotions that is driven by interpersonal relationships and benevolence to the person involved. It’s more context based rather than strictly universal. They make their judgements based on the context and person that would bring some benefit to those involved.

Thank you for the question. Please rate if you like the answer.