Prima Facie Duties

The concept of prima facie duties was introduced by the philosopher W.D. Ross in his book "The Right and the Good" (1930). Ross sought to move beyond simple consequentialist or deontological ethical theories. He believed morality was more complex than a single principle like maximizing happiness or following absolute rules.

Ross argued that we have several fundamental moral obligations that are self-evident upon reflection. These obligations are not absolute, but they create a strong presumption in favor of a particular action. These duties are “prima facie” because they are apparent "at first glance."

Examples of prima facie duties include duties of fidelity (keeping promises), reparation (making amends for wrongs), gratitude (returning kindness), justice (ensuring fairness), beneficence (doing good), self-improvement (bettering oneself), and non-maleficence (avoiding harm). These are not an exhaustive list, and other philosophers might propose different or additional duties.

The importance of prima facie duties lies in their ability to provide a more nuanced and flexible approach to ethical decision-making. They acknowledge that moral dilemmas often involve conflicting obligations. This allows for a more contextual and realistic assessment of moral situations.

When faced with a moral dilemma, one must weigh the relevant prima facie duties and determine which duty is the most pressing or important in that particular situation. This process involves careful consideration of the specific facts and circumstances, as well as the potential consequences of different actions.

The "actual duty" is the duty that, after considering all relevant prima facie duties and circumstances, one is morally obligated to perform. Determining the actual duty is a matter of judgment, and it may not always be clear which duty takes precedence. This is where ethical deliberation and careful reasoning become essential.

One critique of Ross's theory is that it lacks a clear hierarchy or system for resolving conflicts between prima facie duties. Critics argue that without such a system, the theory can be subjective and open to interpretation. This can make it difficult to consistently apply in real-world situations.

Despite these criticisms, the concept of prima facie duties remains influential in contemporary ethics. It provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of moral decision-making and for recognizing the multiple moral considerations that often come into play. It encourages thoughtful deliberation and a balanced approach to ethical dilemmas.