-1 The Ethical Matrix Revisited

A Tract Book Essay

By

Anthony J. Fejfar

© Copyright 2006 by Anthony J. Fejfar

Previously, I have introduced the Ethical Matrix and the Ethical

principles of Reciprocity, Utility, Proportionality, and Equity contained

therein. Reciprocity is based upon the idea that one should treat another as

one would wish him or herself to be treated in similar circumstances.

Similarly, reciprocity states that as you judge, so you shall be judged. Put

another way, reciprocity provides that as you treat others, so you shall be

treated.

After reciprocity, the next ethical principle is Utility. Utility, at it’s

simplest, means, maxization of value. Put more linearly, utility requires

that one judge reality in light of a scale of values. I argue that the first, and

for some, the only rational scale of values, involves Rational Self Interest.

In this sense, one chooses to maximize one’s own Rational Self Interest as

one‘s highest value. The Self is capitalized because one much choose to

pursue the rational interest of the Self, that is the Jungian Self, or True Self.
This means that not only are sensate-sensory experiential values to be

maximized, but also Mind values, and Wisdom or Spiritual values. One

following Rational Self Interest will, all other things being equal, choose a

Self-fulfilling job with good pay, rather than a non-fulfilling job with

excellent pay. Self Interest provides for higher values and feelings, which

the lower, more mundane rational self, does not.

Once again, proportionality is the Ethical Principle which promotes

the idea of Equality and Equality before the law. Equity, on the other hand,

favors the one in need. Equity makes an equitable exception from a general

rule based upon need. This is the Ethical Matrix.