4 (WIP)DCC - Differentiation in complex reference contexts

by Anna S. Hüncke, Matthias Schmidt and Nina Küpper

Last updated: 2025/03/26

This learning unit examines the nature and use of ethics in applied contexts and areas. We speak of applied ethics when fundamental ethical theories are applied to specific situations. If knowledge that is specific for a particular area is included as well, we refer to areas of applied ethics or applied area-specific ethics. An example of this is mining ethics.

Learning­objectives

Learning objectives

After working through this learning unit, you should be able to

• explain what is meant by applied ethics and areas of applied ethics.
• explain the function of applied ethics and areas of applied ethics.
• list some areas of applied ethics and explain why they also integrate expert knowledge.
• explain why areas of applied ethics cannot be clearly distinguished from one another.

outline

Outline

This learning unit begins by explaining the importance of applied ethics, which, in contrast to classical ethical theories, refers to specific situations and cases of conflict in practice. It thus responds to problems of orientation faced in the everyday world. The concept of applied area-specific ethics is then introduced. They are practice-oriented, but they combine ethical knowledge with area-specific expertise in order to arrive at a well-founded assessment of an issue. Finally, it is discussed that applied area-specific ethics cannot be clearly differentiated from one another. This is particularly relevant because mining has overlaps with different areas of society.

You will need approx. 60 minutes to work through the learning unit and approx. 60 minutes to complete the exercises.