The philosophical roots of development ethics

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present the philosophical roots of development ethics as a field of study with its interdisciplinary character. Design/methodology/approach The conceptual and historical evolution of development ethics is unfolded through Aristotle’s philosophy. Findings The authors argued that Aristotle’s philosophy, incorporating the concepts of “a good life” and “a good society,” defines ethical development and influences contemporary development ethics. Originality/value Development ethics is a relatively new field of study within social sciences and determines the ethical perspective of development in a holistic and normative manner. It is important to understand the antecedents, pioneers and contemporary practitioners of development ethics and how they are related. Based on the authors’ knowledge, there has been limited research regarding the origins of the concept of a “good society” as a determinant factor of development. In this context, Aristotle’s philosophy incorporating the concepts of a “good life” and a “good society” is the founding determinant in the study of ethical development.