Evaluate The Ethics Problem: Given Below, Let's Consider Thi

Evaluate The Ethics Problem Given Below Lets Consider This Purely Hy

Evaluate the ethics problem given below, (let's consider this purely hypothetical). Your answer/opinion should clearly indicate which ethical theory it agrees or disagrees with and why this specific theory is relevant here; in her article "Trying Out One's New Sword," philosopher Mary Midgley discusses moral isolationism—the view that we cannot judge another culture’s ethics because we do not understand them. The Japanese practice of tsujigiri involved a samurai testing his sword on a chance traveler, which resulted in a human being being cut in half. This practice is morally unacceptable from a utilitarian perspective because it causes gratuitous harm and suffering, failing to maximize overall well-being. It also conflicts with Kantian ethics, which emphasizes acting according to universal moral duties, such as respect for human life and dignity. Recognizing cultural differences does not excuse such brutal acts; moral judgment based on shared human values is necessary to oppose practices like tsujigiri.

Paper For Above instruction

The practice of tsujigiri, as historically practiced by samurai in Japan, presents a profound ethical dilemma that challenges the notion of moral relativism and moral isolationism. Morally, the act of deliberately testing a sword on innocent travelers involves causing unnecessary harm and suffering, which violates core ethical principles shared across almost all moral frameworks. From a utilitarian perspective, such acts are unjustifiable because they produce more pain than pleasure, decreasing overall happiness. Utilitarianism emphasizes the importance of maximizing well-being and minimizing suffering; thus, any action that inflicts gratuitous harm contradicts this goal (Singer, 2011). Meanwhile, Kantian ethics condemns tsujigiri because it treats the victim solely as a means to an end—testing the sword—rather than respecting their intrinsic dignity as a moral agent (Kant, 1785/1993). This moral duty to respect human life and dignity is universal, and adherence to it should transcend cultural boundaries. Recognizing cultural differences does not justify morally reprehensible acts that violate fundamental human rights. The practice of tsujigiri exemplifies how moral isolationism can hinder moral progress. While understanding cultural practices is important, it should not prevent moral critique of harmful acts that breach universal principles of respect and harm prevention (Midgley, 1995). Therefore, rejecting moral relativism in this context is crucial for upholding universal moral duties and protecting human dignity, regardless of cultural practices.

References

• Kant, I. (1993). Grounding for the metaphysics of morals (J. W. Ellington, Trans.). Hackett Publishing Company. (Original work published 1785)
• Midgley, M. (1995). Trying Out One's New Sword: Morality and Cultural Differences. In Wisdom, Morality and Meaning. Routledge.
• Singer, P. (2011). Practical Ethics. Cambridge University Press.