Ethics, Morality, and Freedom in the Era of Divisive Governing & Fake News: Is a New Quasi Paradigm in the Make?

Abstract

This paper explores the implications of ethics and morality in the government and how top officials and decision makers view their ethical principles both in theory and action. Elements that this paper will focus on are key definitions and principles of morality, ethics, ethical decision making and their impacts on justice, social equity, and citizens' rights. This will be followed by a review of the present political scene and policy decision making in major areas influenced by misguided propaganda and Fake News and the so called alternative reality. The paper will also look at how personal and party interests that have dominated the actions of those in high offices instead are placed ahead of putting the interests of the country and its citizens and the long-term prosperity of the country, Finally the paper examines if this dysfunctional trend is going to be just a passing fad or an unfortunate emerging quasi-paradigm that will permeate the political and administrative scenes for years to come.