Exploring Reflective Equilibrium: Balancing Intuition and Theory in Ethical Decision-Making

Introduction

The concept of reflective equilibrium plays a crucial role in ethical decision-making, serving as a method to achieve coherence between our moral intuitions and theoretical principles. This paper aims to explore the dynamics of reflective equilibrium, examining how it facilitates a balanced approach to ethical reasoning. By integrating personal intuitions with established ethical theories, reflective equilibrium offers a framework for resolving moral dilemmas. This exploration will illustrate the importance of this balance and the implications it has for ethical practice in various fields, including philosophy, law, and healthcare.

Main Body

Reflective equilibrium is a method proposed by philosopher John Rawls, which seeks to harmonize our intuitive judgments about specific moral cases with broader ethical theories. The process involves a back-and-forth adjustment between intuitions and principles until a state of coherence is reached.