The philosophy of becoming is a new way to think about ethics that challenges traditional moral systems based on fixed rules and duties. According to this perspective, human beings are dynamic beings who constantly change and grow throughout their lives, so ethical principles need to evolve alongside them. In particular, relational ethics - which focuses on how humans interact with each other - may benefit from reconsidering its core assumptions.
Does the philosophy of becoming require rethinking traditional ethical principles governing relationality?
To understand why, it's necessary to look at some key concepts in relational ethics.
The idea that humans have a natural right to freedom entails that they can act according to their own desires as long as they don't harm others. This principle assumes that individuals exist outside of relationships, but it's been challenged by postmodern theories arguing for greater recognition of social contexts and power dynamics. Another concept central to relational ethics is autonomy; people should have control over their bodies and minds and decide what happens to them without interference.
This ideal has been criticized for ignoring the ways in which society shapes individual choices.
We see how traditional relational ethics emphasizes the importance of personal agency while downplaying the influence of external factors like culture or history. But the philosophy of becoming suggests that these external forces can shape us just as much as our interior experiences do. It proposes that we should embrace a more fluid view of identity, where we become different versions of ourselves depending on what situations we find ourselves in. From this perspective, ethics must be flexible enough to accommodate changing identities rather than being rigidly applied across all cases.
Applying the philosophy of becoming to relational ethics means recognizing that human interaction isn't always about respecting boundaries or maintaining distance. Sometimes, intimacy can be beneficial and even healing - especially if it's consensual. In these cases, ethical guidelines could focus on ensuring mutual pleasure and care instead of promoting isolation. Moreover, it may not make sense to assume that two people are completely separate from each other; their histories, cultures, and worldviews inform their interactions even when they try to keep things professional.
Rethinking traditional principles governing relationality requires an openness to new ideas and perspectives. The philosophy of becoming invites us to let go of fixed definitions and embrace change as part of life itself. By embracing complexity and fluidity, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate approach to ethics that reflects our dynamic nature.
Does the philosophy of becoming require rethinking traditional ethical principles governing relationality?
Although there is no one definition of the term "becoming," it generally refers to a process of change or transformation that involves both individuals and groups. The philosophy of becoming may involve a reconsideration of traditional ethical principles governing relationality in several ways. Firstly, this approach emphasizes the importance of understanding relationships as dynamic and evolving processes rather than static entities. This means that moral principles related to relationships should be flexible enough to accommodate changing circumstances and contexts.