feminist ethics

Feminist ethics is a philosophical perspective that critiques traditional ethical theories for being male-biased. It emerged in the 1980s, with key figures like Carol Gilligan and Nel Noddings proposing an "ethics of care". This approach emphasizes relational and context-bound morality, prioritizing love, compassion, and caring for those with whom one has relationships, rather than abstract principles or individual rights. It contrasts with theories like Kantian deontology and utilitarianism, which are seen as reflecting a masculine viewpoint rooted in competition and domination. While not all feminist philosophers agree on the "ethics of care," feminist ethics has broadened discussions in applied ethics, particularly in fields like education and nursing.123