Amorality
Encyclopedia
Amorality is an absence of, indifference
towards, or disregard for moral beliefs
. Any entity that is not sentient may be considered amoral. In addition, it can be argued that sentient but non-human
creatures, like dogs, have no concept of morality and are therefore amoral. Even some humans may be considered amoral, including newborn babies or persons with cognitive disorders (perhaps, for example, those diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder
). Some philosophers argue further that rational human adults may even be able to choose to be amoral; i.e., humans may discard codes or systems of morality that have been purely socially constructed by their native cultures. Much of this argument revolves around the definition of morality in terms of its universality in human beings. If a rational human being can in any way override a (possibly inborn) capacity to establish notions of right and wrong, it is arguable that human beings have the ability to become amoral. Amoral should not be confused with immoral, which refers to the intentional doing or thinking of doing what oneself knows (or believes) to be wrong.
s exhibit qualities that are considered amoral according to some ethical theories, but can also be called immoral on the basis of different means of examination.
Apathy
Apathy is a state of indifference, or the suppression of emotions such as concern, excitement, motivation and passion. An apathetic individual has an absence of interest in or concern about emotional, social, spiritual, philosophical or physical life.They may lack a sense of purpose or meaning in...
towards, or disregard for moral beliefs
Morality
Morality is the differentiation among intentions, decisions, and actions between those that are good and bad . A moral code is a system of morality and a moral is any one practice or teaching within a moral code...
. Any entity that is not sentient may be considered amoral. In addition, it can be argued that sentient but non-human
Non-human
Non-human is a term used to refer to non-human actors. Its use marks a shift in how the role of humans is perceived and discussed...
creatures, like dogs, have no concept of morality and are therefore amoral. Even some humans may be considered amoral, including newborn babies or persons with cognitive disorders (perhaps, for example, those diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder
Antisocial personality disorder
Antisocial personality disorder is described by the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fourth edition , as an Axis II personality disorder characterized by "...a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others that begins in childhood...
). Some philosophers argue further that rational human adults may even be able to choose to be amoral; i.e., humans may discard codes or systems of morality that have been purely socially constructed by their native cultures. Much of this argument revolves around the definition of morality in terms of its universality in human beings. If a rational human being can in any way override a (possibly inborn) capacity to establish notions of right and wrong, it is arguable that human beings have the ability to become amoral. Amoral should not be confused with immoral, which refers to the intentional doing or thinking of doing what oneself knows (or believes) to be wrong.
Non-human entities
CorporationCorporation
A corporation is created under the laws of a state as a separate legal entity that has privileges and liabilities that are distinct from those of its members. There are many different forms of corporations, most of which are used to conduct business. Early corporations were established by charter...
s exhibit qualities that are considered amoral according to some ethical theories, but can also be called immoral on the basis of different means of examination.
External links
- Definition of amorality at Dictionary.com