Phil 120
M5: Journal Reflections 1-3
Journal Reflection #1
Having universal moral laws is not something I support. I think that not everything is black and
white and particular circumstances do come into play when choosing right from wrong. The google
definition of ‘morals’ is “a lesson, especially one concerning what is right or prudent, that can be derived
from a story, a piece of information, or an experience.” This same google definition also stated that
morals are “a person's standards of behavior or beliefs concerning what is and is not acceptable for them
to do”. It seems contradictory to put morals and universal together as a law. Morals are so specific to a
person, their culture, their circumstance/situation, and their beliefs. Universal law would be the
opposite of that saying that everyone must believe and do the exact same thing no matter the
circumstance.
Journal Reflection #2
I do not believe what is true for me is true for everyone. A person’s truth is so subjective
and personal and believing that everyone must have the same truth as you do is not realistic. It
is hard for me to see how someone who does think there is one truth can be an ethical nurse.
Relaying back to autonomy from the previous module, a nurse does not have to agree or believe
in the same things as the patient does but he/she must respect it. A nurse with autonomy will
realize that there is not one truth and embrace it. Without autonomy, a nurse could show
judgment and give unfair care to their patient depending on their beliefs and choices.