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The capstone lesson where students integrate applied ethics and existentialism to define their own purpose.
If you were the sole author of the 'User Manual for Humanity,' what would be the first law you'd write—and would you be willing to live by it if you were the victim of its consequences?
Most ethical frameworks operate in isolation. Utilitarianism focuses on the result (, where is gain and is loss), while Deontology focuses on the rule (). However, modern life is rarely that simple. To create a Personal Ethical Manifesto, you must synthesize these. Synthesis isn't just picking what you like; it’s creating a hierarchy of values. For example, you might use Virtue Ethics to define who you want to be, but use Deontology to set 'hard lines' you will never cross. This creates a robust system where your character (virtue) informs your rules (duty), which ultimately produces the best outcomes (utility).
Quick Check
What is the primary difference between 'Synthesis' and simply picking random ideas from different philosophies?
Answer
Synthesis involves creating a structured hierarchy of values where different frameworks support and balance one another, rather than just choosing ideas conveniently.
Jean-Paul Sartre argued that for humans, existence precedes essence. Unlike a letter opener, which is designed with a purpose (essence) before it is made, humans exist first and then define their purpose through choice. This Radical Freedom is the cornerstone of your manifesto. If there is no pre-written script for your life, the 'meaning of life' is not something you find—it is something you construct. However, this freedom comes with Anguish, the realization that you alone are responsible for the weight of your choices. Your manifesto serves as the 'anchor' in this sea of absolute freedom.
Imagine you are offered a high-paying job at a company that violates your environmental values. 1. Step 1 (Existentialist): Recognize that you are not 'destined' to take the job or refuse it; the choice is yours alone. 2. Step 2 (Deontological): Apply a rule: 'I will not profit from destruction.' 3. Step 3 (Utilitarian): Calculate if taking the job and donating the salary to charity creates more good than refusing it. 4. Step 4 (Synthesis): Your manifesto might prioritize the rule (Step 2) over the calculation (Step 3) to preserve your character (Virtue).
Quick Check
According to Sartre, why does the lack of a pre-defined 'essence' lead to anguish?
Answer
Because it places the total responsibility for defining one's purpose and values solely on the individual.
A common critique of a personal manifesto is Nihilism: the belief that because the universe lacks objective meaning, any manifesto you write is just a 'noble lie.' To defend your stance, you must distinguish between Objective Meaning (given by the universe) and Subjective Meaning (created by the agent). You can argue that while the universe may be indifferent (), the human experience of value is a biological and social reality (). Therefore, your manifesto is not a 'lie,' but a necessary map for navigating a complex social and psychological landscape.
A critic argues: 'Your manifesto is just your opinion. Why should it matter?' 1. The Critique: If ethics are subjective, then 'Murder is wrong' is no more valid than 'I like ice cream.' 2. The Defense: Use Intersubjectivity. Argue that while your manifesto is personal, it is built on universal human needs (like safety and trust). 3. The Logic: If destroys the possibility of , and is required for , then is objectively detrimental to your stated purpose, even if the universe doesn't care.
In the context of an ethical manifesto, what does 'Existence precedes Essence' imply?
Which framework would most likely say 'The ends justify the means'?
Synthesis in ethics means you must follow all frameworks equally at all times.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to recall the three 'Big Three' ethical frameworks and one reason why Sartre believes we are 'condemned to be free.'
Practice Activity
Draft three 'Non-Negotiable' rules for your own life. For each rule, identify if it is based on a Duty, a Virtue, or a Result.