A Comparative Study of Zygmunt Bauman's Ethics and Immanuel Kant's Ethics

Abstract

          This study employs a qualitative research approach with the objective of analyzing and comparing the ethics of Immanuel Kant and Zygmunt Bauman. The findings reveal that Kantian ethics, which is a form of deontological ethics, emphasizes universal moral principles and relies on reason as its foundation. Kant asserts that a morally right action must be capable of becoming a universal law applicable to everyone. While this approach provides a clear moral standard, it has limitations in addressing the complexities of modern society. In contrast, Bauman's ethics prioritize responsibility toward others and focus on moral relationships rather than adherence to universal rules. Bauman argues that the modern world is characterized by uncertainty ("liquid modernity"), necessitating a flexible and context-sensitive ethical approach. The advantage of this perspective is its ability to address complex moral dilemmas effectively; however, it lacks clear criteria for determining right and wrong. This study leads to the development of the Dynamic and Contextual Ethics Model (DCE Model), which integrates Kantian and Baumanian ethics. The model employs Kant’s moral principles as a universal ethical framework while utilizing Bauman’s ideas as a tool for assessing specific contextual situations. This model has potential applications in ethical policymaking, human rights, artificial intelligence technology, and business ethics.