Thinking it Through – Ethics with Henry Wellsmore

The first of our Ethics sessions at Progress Hall brought together a thoughtful group of 15 locals curious to explore some of the big questions of life: what does it mean to act ethically? and how do we decide what is “right” when opinions, laws and beliefs differ?

Henry Wellsmore led the discussion, drawing on his decades of experience in counselling, ethics and community work. Henry reminded us that ethics is not the same as personal opinion, gut feelings, professional etiquette, public policy or even religion and law. Rather, ethics is about human flourishing and wellbeing. It is prescriptive, it asks what we should do. It has overriding importance, applying across cultures and contexts.

Participants considered the influences that shape our own value systems. Family upbringing, education, politics, religion, and lived experience all play a role in how we weigh up what’s “right” and “wrong”. We also looked at several of the major ethical theories:

Deontology (Immanuel Kant), which focuses on rules and duties regardless of outcomes.

Consequentialism (Bentham, Mill, Singer), where the morality of an action depends on its results, seeking “the greatest good for the greatest number”.

Virtue theory (Plato, Aristotle), which looks to character and motives rather than rules or results.

Human rights, recognising both “positive” rights (such as the right to healthcare) and “negative” rights (such as liberty).

Each theory has strengths and drawbacks. Taken together, they offer different “lenses” for examining a dilemma. As Henry noted, none of this is rocket science, but it’s not easy either. The value lies in slowing down, considering multiple perspectives, and recognising that ethical decision-making takes effort.

The upcoming second session will recap the ground covered, provide space for questions, and introduce the other main models of ethics. If time permits, Henry will also present a practical framework for approaching ethical dilemmas:

identify the issue and conflicting values,

consider who is involved,

outline possible actions,

weigh up potential consequences from each ethical perspective,

then make a reasoned decision.

It’s a problem-solving approach that encourages reflection rather than snap judgement.

Join us on Wednesday 1st October, 10am–12 midday (cuppa from 9:30am) at Progress Hall, 197 Skye Point Rd, Coal Point. A gold coin donation will help cover costs.

Bring your curiosity and your questions, this promises to be another stimulating morning of learning and conversation.

Book in here or scan the QR code.