Germany Jahrgangsstufe 13 Ethics
Chapters: 2
1. Law and justice
Law and justice
- The Justice System: How Disputes and Crimes Are Settled – A justice system is the set of rules, people and courts a society uses to settle disputes fairly and deal with crimes. Many disputes end without court through negotiation, mediation or arbitration (ADR). Civil cases are between parties and end in compensation; criminal cases are brought by the state and can end in punishment. In a trial each side brings evidence; the claimant must prove a civil case on the balance of probabilities, and the prosecution must prove a crime beyond reasonable doubt. A losing party can appeal to a higher court. Judges must be independent. Young people are judged in special youth courts that focus on protection and education.
2. Meaning and life planning
Meaning of life and the good life
- Happiness and the Good Life – Everyone wants to be happy, but the word has several meanings: good luck, a pleasant feeling, or a whole life that goes well. Pleasures give quick, short happiness that fades as we get used to them; friendships, skills, good character and meaning build lasting happiness. Hedonists see pleasure as the goal; Epicurus chose simple pleasures and a calm mind; Aristotle saw happiness (eudaimonia) as living well through virtue; the Stoics focused on what we can control; utilitarians seek the greatest happiness for the greatest number; Kant asked us to do our duty and so become worthy of happiness. Religions add love of others, gratitude and trust that life has a meaning.