Origins in Ancient Civilizations:
- Ancient Egypt: The "Instructions of Ptahhotep" (c. 2400 BC) provided ethical guidance on honesty, truthfulness, and respect for others.
- Ancient Greece: Philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle developed ethical theories that emphasized virtue, justice, and the pursuit of happiness.
Medieval Period:
- Judeo-Christian Tradition: The Ten Commandments and the teachings of Jesus Christ provided moral frameworks for individuals and society.
- Islamic Tradition: The Five Pillars of Islam (prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, and belief) included ethical principles such as honesty, compassion, and social responsibility.
Renaissance and Enlightenment:
- Humanism: Renaissance thinkers emphasized human reason and rationality, leading to a focus on ethical principles based on natural law and human nature.
- Enlightenment: Philosophers like Locke, Hume, and Rousseau developed theories of natural rights and social contract, which emphasized the ethical obligations of governments and individuals.
18th and 19th Centuries:
- Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill: Utilitarianism emerged as a consequentialist ethical theory that emphasized the greatest happiness for the greatest number.
- Immanuel Kant: Deontology, or duty-based ethics, argued that actions should be based on universal moral principles, regardless of consequences.
Professional Ethics in the 20th Century:
- Medical Ethics: The American Medical Association's Principles of Medical Ethics (1903) established guidelines for ethical conduct in the medical profession.
- Engineering Ethics: The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) published its Code of Ethics in 1914, outlining ethical principles for engineers.
- Other Professions: Codes of ethics were developed for various professions, such as law, accounting, and journalism, to promote ethical behavior and maintain public trust.
Modern Developments:
- Globalization and Technology: Advances in technology and the interconnectedness of the global economy have posed new ethical challenges, leading to the development of international ethical frameworks.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Companies are increasingly adopting codes of ethics and engaging in socially responsible practices to address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.
- Sustainability and Environmental Ethics: Ethical considerations have become increasingly important in addressing climate change, resource depletion, and other sustainability concerns.