On the potential in film for ethics education: In defence of educational ethicism

Abstract

In this paper the potential in film for ethics education is considered and the theory of educational ethicism is defended. Some key features of ethicism are firstly outlined. Gaut’s argument about how artworks may teach ethics in an aesthetically meritorious way is also discussed. Two objections (from Kieran and Sauchelli) to Gaut’s position are secondly considered. It is argued that Gaut’s ethicism is not well placed to surmount these objections. However, I thirdly draw upon Hirst to explain why a refined species of ethicism (educational ethicism) can surmount these objections. Educational ethicism holds that artworks with ethical themes be regarded as starting points for conversations about ethics rather than conveyers of definite ethical teachings that only a normatively specified audience can grasp. Three ways that film can possess potential for ethics education are also documented: through the moral growth of the audience or by helping them to deepen understanding of an aspect of ethical experience or theory.