Reflections Week XIV

During Thanksgiving break last week I enjoyed Ethical Realism and thought the class discussion Tuesday went particularly well. The pauses after people’s comments were effective and allowed for a clear flow of responses that were related, yet provided new insights. As people commented on the balance between ethics and realism, I began to think the title of the book should be Realist Ethics, because the realist agenda determines the amount of ethical practice implemented. The well-being and wishes of another people are considered and granted only “when possible” and compatible with a realist policy; however, either title clearly incorporates the new approach to relations with other countries. While no solution is perfect in its creation or implementation, a system that allows peace through economic interdependence between countries and places emphasis on market values instead of individual rights might be the most practical and effective manner of relation for many areas of the world. A system with the most potential to prevent military confrontation and other forms of violent force should be considered most seriously, especially one that forms an alternative approach to a zealous spread of democracy, considering the ideological differences and struggles of today.