Ethics and Civil Society

Abstract

This entry first discusses morality and ethics, especially as they are expressed in a pluralistic society, and considers different approaches to the possibility of consensus on basic morality and human rights. Second, it discusses civil society and how it relates to state coercion and market pressures, distinguishing different concepts of civil society, including civil society as associational life, as the public sphere, and as social civility. Finally, it discusses the social and political issues that arise when moral commitments, especially those integrated with distinctive religious or ideological outlooks, motivate discussions and actions in a pluralistic civil society. The latter issues include whether citizens in the public sphere should restrain themselves from using controversial moral and religious beliefs when advocating for legislation or political candidates, as well as how a civil society accommodates those who have conscientious objections to majority legislation.