Minding the gap between logic and intuition: an interpretative approach to ethical analysis.

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Moral Philosophy

Background:

• Ethicists strive for rational, objective analysis of ethical dilemmas to avoid moral relativism.
• Traditional approaches aim to minimize contextual individuality, but can lead to counterintuitive conclusions for professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore an interpretative approach to ethical analysis.
• To understand the gap between logical ethical arguments and intuitive acceptance.
• To improve the persuasiveness and applicability of ethical reasoning.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of how ethical arguments are constructed and shared.
• Examination of the role of values, worldviews, and personal meaning in ethical acceptance.
• Case studies including abortion, euthanasia, and organ donation.

Main Results:

• Persuasiveness hinges on aligning with or altering the audience's values and worldview.
• Failure to acknowledge the meaning individuals derive from their lives hinders acceptance.
• Ethical arguments may seem irrelevant if their narratives diverge from the audience's lived experiences.

Conclusions:

• An interpretative approach can bridge the gap between ethical logic and intuition.
• Acknowledging and respecting individual values and narratives is crucial for ethical acceptance.
• Ethical analysis must consider the subjective meaning and context of individuals' lives for relevance.