Tag: #ThinkCritically

Ethical Dilemma occur when we have to decide between two opposing moral principles. Learning them is about using moral reasoning through models such as deontology (duty-based ethics), utilitarianism (consequence-based ethics), and virtue ethics (character-based ethics). Deontology (Kant) suggests following moral rules regardless of consequences, while Utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill) prioritizes overall happiness.

Recently, I encountered a small but meaningful ethical challenge with my 3-year-old son. He wanted to take an extra toy from a friend’s house, believing it was fine since his friend had many. This moment became an opportunity to apply virtue ethics—teaching him honesty and fairness rather than just enforcing rules. Instead of simply saying “no,” I guided him to understand the importance of respecting others’ belongings. This experience reinforced that ethical learning starts early, shaping character through real-life situations.

Ethical dilemmas rarely have clear answers and require empathy, wisdom, and moral reasoning. They test our principles, refine judgment, and shape our values. Morality is often a spectrum of carefully weighed decisions defining who we are. It is at the end our decision of what choices we make.

Today’s life class was an insightful exploration of ethical dilemmas and moral decision-making. We began by analyzing different scenarios and ranking them based on our personal morals and ethics. This activity helped us understand how individual values shape our decisions and how they can sometimes differ from others’ perspectives.

Following this, we discussed the idea that moral values are not equal to universal ethics. This discussion made me reflect on whether there are absolute right and wrong actions or if ethics depend on cultural and personal beliefs.

The article we read about a ritual practiced in another country deepened this discussion. It challenged us to think critically about how cultural practices can be viewed differently depending on one’s background, and whether something that seems right to one group might be wrong to another.

Next, we researched various ethical theories such as moral realism, moral relativism, self-esteem, deontology, and others. Each theory provided a different perspective on how ethics, duties, and self-interest influence decision-making. I found deontology particularly interesting as it focuses on following rules and duties rather than just considering the outcomes of actions.

Finally, we applied these theories to new ethical dilemmas, making decisions based on our understanding of morality. This activity reinforced the idea that ethical decision-making is complex and often requires balancing multiple perspectives. Overall, today’s class helped me gain a deeper understanding of ethics and how they shape our everyday choices.

Roots of Faith: Exploring Nature, God, and Human Belief

Growing up in a Brahmin religious family, I was naturally introduced to a traditional belief system and was engaged in basic rituals like visiting temples and observing customs. Over time, however, my perspective evolved. While I respect these traditions, now I feel a deeper resonance with the natural world, viewing nature itself as the truest form of god.

I often find myself questioning: if nature is the true god, then who are Krishna, Ram, Hanuman, and all the other deities I grew up praying? I wonder about the role they play in my beliefs now and how they fit into my understanding of divinity as rooted in the natural world.

I believe that nature is our true form of god. The elements fire, water, air, and earth are sacred forces that shape our lives, providing all we need to thrive and grow. They remind us the connection with the universe. As people see God as a creator, protector, and destroyer, I believe these natural elements are fulfilling these roles. They create life, sustain and nourish it, and also bring it to an end when the time is right.

On D5 and 6 of our Critical thinkig life class, The exploration of religious biases left a lasting impression on me, unveiling the intricate ways in which our perspectives and convictions ebb and flow with the tides of circumstance. The diverse array of learning tools employed, including videos, articles, group discussions, and debates, has been instrumental in cultivating a more nuanced and critical approach to understanding topics as complex as belief systems, rituals, customs, and traditions.

One of the key takeaways for me has been the realization that critical thinking is not merely an intellectual exercise but a dynamic process deeply intertwined with our values and actions. The class emphasized how it’s important to combine our beliefs with careful thinking about what is morally right. This mix is crucial for dealing with the complexities of ideas like God, religion, and tradition.

The guest speaker sessions with Vardan sir and Parag sir were particularly illuminating. Their insights not only broadened my perspective but also provided practical insights that I foresee being immensely beneficial in navigating future discussions and debates. The diversity of thought they brought to the table served as a powerful catalyst for fostering an emerging thinking power within me.

In essence, these two days have been pivotal in shaping my understanding of critical thinking and its applicability to topics that often elude easy comprehension. I feel equipped not only to engage in thoughtful discourse but also to approach these discussions with a heightened sensitivity to the diverse beliefs and values held by others.