The philosophical roots of development ethics

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present the philosophical roots of development ethics as a field of study with its interdisciplinary character. Design/methodology/approach The conceptual and historical evolution of development ethics is unfolded through Aristotle’s philosophy. Findings The authors argued that Aristotle’s philosophy, incorporating the concepts of “a good life” and “a good society,” defines ethical development and influences contemporary development ethics. Originality/value Development ethics is a relatively new field of study within social sciences and determines the ethical perspective of development in a holistic and normative manner. It is important to understand the antecedents, pioneers and contemporary practitioners of development ethics and how they are related. Based on the authors’ knowledge, there has been limited research regarding the origins of the concept of a “good society” as a determinant factor of development. In this context, Aristotle’s philosophy incorporating the concepts of a “good life” and a “good society” is the founding determinant in the study of ethical development.

What Is the Ethical Reflection of the Sustainable Development Goals?

“…and What is a good society? are age-old questions associated with Aristotle (Marangos et al, 2019), but also expressed in different ways within different societies (Kinyanjui, 2021;Mbiti, 1969). As relevant today as ever, institu-tions and procedures have been created to help ensure that ethical principles are followed as people and nations pursue their development aspirations (North, 1990).…”

“…Scholars and practitioners of moral philosophy will recognize that the principles and values contained in these goals have been of central concern to ethicists of politics, society, and development, including Aristotle, Louis Lebret, Denis Goulet, Amartya Sen, and Martha Craven Nussbaum (Gasper, 2012;Marangos et al, 2019). From an ethical perspective, it can be argued that the SDGs are development aspirations, and are expected to contribute to the realization of the good life and a good society.…”

“…From an ethical perspective, it can be argued that the SDGs are development aspirations, and are expected to contribute to the realization of the good life and a good society. They are underlain by fundamental ethical concerns such as inequality, social justice, poverty, human rights, freedom, and choice, which have been and remain at the center of real life, philosophical discourse, and development ethics (Gasper, 2012;Marangos et al, 2019).…”