Timeline of major ethical philosophies

Timeline of Major Ethical Philosophies

By ysa
  • 469 BCE

    Socrates (469 - 399 BC)

    Socrates (469 - 399 BC)
    "He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have." This philosophy states that contentment makes us happy. Those who are not contented would do evil acts to attain things that are out of their reach. This mentions that some people do these deeds on purpose to satisfy their hidden desires. Other people do wrong actions because they were ignorant. Others did evil deeds when the pros outweighed the cons at that moment.
  • 428 BCE

    Plato (428 - 348 BC)

    Plato (428 - 348 BC)
    "Good Actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others." This ethical philosophy states that people should do something good without expecting anything in return because it will make them feel happy. Doing good to others will make them do good acts to others as well, which will help create a cycle of right actions. This philosophy also mentions that happiness is not in material things but people.
  • 384 BCE

    Aristotle (384 - 322 BC)

    Aristotle (384 - 322 BC)
    “At his best, man is the noblest of all animals. Separated from law and justice, he is the worst.” This philosophy states that man is essentially good but could be the greatest enemy to himself and others. This is because one might do evil deeds if he is in a particular situation. The Golden Mean Principle means that we need to live a moderate life to be happy as too many or too few of something could be bad for ourselves and the community. Do not be blinded by greed.

  • Thomas Hobbes (1588 - 1679)

    Thomas Hobbes (1588 - 1679)
    Moral Positivism Humans are selfish beings who will do anything to improve their position. This selfish chaos is emphasized in a situation where laws are not followed. This philosophy emphasizes the need for laws and leaders. This also mentions the need to create, enforce, and obey laws to maintain peace and order in the community.

  • Jeremy Bentham (1748 - 1832)

    Jeremy Bentham (1748 - 1832)
    Utilitarianism This philosophy states that one must do whatever action will provide the greater good for the majority. It states that an act is considered right or wrong depending on the results of the act.