Episode #168 - Introduction to an Ethics of Care
Introduction to an Ethics of Care
Key Takeaways
Carol Gilligan's Challenge to Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development: The episode highlights Carol Gilligan's critique of Lawrence Kohlberg's theory. Gilligan observed that Kohlberg's research, primarily involving male subjects, suggested women had a lower moral development ceiling, a notion she challenged.
Ethics of Care vs. Justice-Oriented Ethics: Gilligan's work led to the concept of the "ethics of care," contrasting the justice-oriented approach traditionally used in moral development studies. This concept emphasizes understanding moral dilemmas through relationships and context, rather than abstract principles.
Socialization and Gender Roles in Moral Reasoning: The podcast discusses how societal roles and expectations influence moral reasoning. Women, often socialized as caregivers, may approach moral dilemmas differently than men, who are frequently socialized to prioritize justice and problem-solving.
Broader Implications of an Ethics of Care: Finally, the episode explores the broader implications of an ethics of care, emphasizing its importance beyond gender roles. It suggests this ethical approach is crucial for a holistic understanding of morality in society.
Recommended Reading
In a Different Voice: Psychological Theory and Women's Development By Carol Gilligan
In this groundbreaking book, Gilligan challenged the male-centered psychology of her time and offered a new perspective on women's psychological development.The Ethics of Care: Personal, Political, and Global By Virginia Held
This book explores the ethics of care as a moral theory, discussing its characteristics, its feminist roots, and its potential for addressing social and global issues.Caring Democracy: Markets, Equality, and Justice by Joan Tronto
Tronto argues for a rethinking of American democracy and its values from a caring perspective, proposing care as the central concern of democratic political life.
See the full transcript here.
Thank you to everyone who makes this podcast a possibility in the future.
I could never do this without your support! :)
