Because epistemology requires a “something to be” and ontology provides the basis for that “something” a partnership between the two is formed (Vasilachis de Gialdino, 2009). All aspects of knowledge are in scope and focus for people studying epistemology. What is knowledge? How it is gained and used? Can it be known completely?
Which is essential to objective reporting takes place, and scientists need to use critical thinking skills and be skeptical when analyzing data. The scientific method is an involved method to ensure that research is ethically complete (Shaughnessy, Zechmeister, & Zechmeister, 2009). In research two types of data exist, quantitative data, and qualitative data. Quantitative data refers to data that involves numbers; behaviors or objects that can be counted, such as statistics, percentages, and formula-based analysis (Shaughnessy, Zechmeister, & Zechmeister, 2009). Qualitative data refers to data that consists of verbal summaries, observations, or analysis.
EXPLAIN HOW BENTHAM’S VERSION OF UTILITARIANISM MAY BE USED TO DECIDE ON THE RIGHT COURSE OF ACTION. (25 marks) Utilitarianism is the ethical theory that determines the reasons for a person choosing to carry out an action - it justifies an action being for the greater good. Utilitarianism is a teleological theory which looks at the consequences of an action, rather than the process of the action itself - to decide whether it is consequently right or wrong which therefore also makes it a consequentialist theory. The theory of Utilitarianism began with Jeremy Bentham when he believed in 'the greatest good for the greatest number'. Jeremy Bentham first proposed is theory of Utilitarianism on the basis for social reform.
Realism emphasizes the ultimate importance of the natural world, that is, the physical, material, sensible universe. Pragmatism suggests that reality is not static in the sense of depending on absolute ideas or matter, but rather is ultimately "in process" and must be constantly probed and determined by social experimentation. Existentialism holds that reality is not objective, rather it is subjective and must be constructed by each individual. The implications of these worldviews for three examples of ethical dilemmas relating to information technology, those concerning piracy, privacy, and authority-deception are described and discussed. Keywords: Metaethics, Information ethics, Idealism, Realism, Pragmatism, Existentialism, piracy, privacy, authority-deception Introduction "Metaethics" is a term subject to potential
10 pp. 2 vols. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Gale Apollo Library. 18 Dec. 2009.
I will explain the basic ideas of functionalism and explain how common-sense plays a role in the theory. I will then present one objection to the common-sense functionalism theory and form a hypothesis of how a common-sense functionalist would respond to the objection. Lastly, I will present my own evaluation of the common-sense functonalism theory. Functionalism, in simple terms, is the doctrine that the function of an object should determine its design and materials. It is a doctrine in the philosophy of mind according to which mental states are defined by their causes and effects.
The research is written as such that the best interest of the service user is considered within the research highlighting the value principles of the researchers themselves, where there is consideration for equality, dignity and respect. Although the article does not conclude any evidence outcomes, it is still important to note that evidence based practice is often the basis for decision making and implementing research findings into practice. Evidence based research involves identifying the best available answer to questions that are raised on an identified need albeit that of a service user or organisation. It involves a process of evaluating the evidence and its effectiveness in informing practice and intervention (McLaughlin, 2007). One could argue that evidence based practice bridges the gap between research and practice with its focus on outcomes.
In other words, they answer the question What drives behaviour? It is important to remember that the following are theories, none of which have been conclusively shown to be valid. Nonetheless, they are helpful in providing a contextual framework for dealing with individuals Process theory is a commonly used form of scientific research study in which events or occurrences are said to be the result of certain input states leading to a certain outcome (output) state, following a set process. Another theory that attempts to explain human behavior is Content theory. Process theory holds that if an outcome is to be duplicated, so too must the process which originally created it, and that there are certain constant necessary conditions for the outcome to be reached.
The first core belief is the concept of the autonomous, responsible and rational adult. Mezirow believed that the goal of transformational learning is “to gain the crucial sense of agency over ourselves and our lives" that is often associated with individuals reflecting on a dysfunctional operational system or company policy, and taking action to change it. A second core belief relates to knowledge creation that is constructivist. Human beings are active participants in the process of making meaning and are the creators of knowledge and hence engage in critical reflection. The pre-conditions that satiate the concept are full information, the ability to objectively evaluate arguments and freedom from self-deception or coercion.
Importance Critical thinking is an important element of all professional fields and academic disciplines (by referencing their respective sets of permissible questions, evidence sources, criteria, etc.). Within the framework of scientific skepticism, the process of critical thinking involves the careful acquisition and interpretation of information and use of it to reach a well-justified conclusion. The concepts and principles of critical thinking can be applied to any context or case but only by reflecting upon the nature of that application. Critical thinking forms, therefore, a system of related, and overlapping, modes of thought such as anthropological thinking, sociological thinking, historical thinking, political thinking, psychological thinking, philosophical thinking, mathematical thinking, chemical thinking, biological thinking, ecological thinking, legal thinking, ethical thinking, musical thinking, thinking like a painter, sculptor, engineer, business person, etc. In other words, though critical thinking principles are universal, their application to disciplines requires a process of reflective contextualization.