Prima facie Duties and Ross's Theory of Right Conduct

Prima Facie Duties and Ross’s Theory of Right Conduct “There are other beings in this world whose condition we can make better in respect of virtue, or of intelligence or of pleasure” (Ross). W.D. Ross was a philosopher who developed the Theory of Right Conduct. The seven prima facie duties are central in Ross’s Theory of Right Conduct. The purpose of these duties is to determine what people ought to do in questionable moral situations. “A prima facie duty is a duty that is binding (obligatory) other things equal, that is, unless it is overridden or trumped by another duty or duties” (Garrett). The purpose of this paper is to explain the prima facie duties and Ross’s Theory of Right Conduct. To further demonstrate the theory it will be applied to a morally controversial case. In order to understand the concept of prima facie duties one must understand each of the seven duties. The first duty is Fidelity, this is the obligation to keep one’s promises and not participate in dishonesty. The second is Reparation, which is the duty to make up for any injuries one has caused others. The next duty is Gratitude, this states that one must show gratitude towards others for their help and if possible return the favor. The fourth duty is Harm Prevention that is the duty to prevent harm to others resulting from causes other than oneself. Next is Beneficence this is the duty to do good to others in order to promote their overall wellbeing. The sixth prima facie duty is Self-Improvement that is literally the duty to act in a way that improves one’s self and promotes one’s own wellbeing. Lastly, Justice is the duty that requires one to act in a way that promotes justice in a just manor. While all of these duties appear to be self explanatory and straightforward it can be difficult to determine when one ought to or ought not to perform an action. Ross’s Theory of Right Conduct helps to clarify when two prima facie duties conflict. Ross’s Theory of Right Conduct is a

Cited: Garrett, Dr. Jan. "A Simple and Usable (Although Incomplete) Ethical Theory Based on the Ethics of W. D. Ross." WKU. N.p., 10 Aug 2004. Web. 27 Nov 2013. Ross, W. D.”The Right and the Good.” Oxford University Press. N.p., 1930. Web. 27 Nov 2013.