College and University > Ethics > Love Videos
Moral principle is the governing idea of ethical love. And by this alone, love is indeed ethical, if expressed right. Of course, the definition of right and wrong vary. And so, the view of ethics of love becomes complex. There two types of love, outward and inward love, and both have ethics to explore in them.
Outward Love or the Expression Through Care
The general understanding is that the most ethical view of love would be an expression of care. People in love usually find a reason to show concern for their loved ones. Care can be given through words such as saying that they love someone, or telling them they are concerned. Outward love can also be through actions as in cooking for a loved one or giving an endearing message. In this type of love expression, making sure that the receiver values the words and action is important. It becomes unethical when used to manipulate reciprocation.
Inward Love or Selflessness
Love can also be ethical when it is inward. Right and wrong in this sense are only judged by the self. Others may critic on the act but their say won’t matter so much when a person is already selfless and giving without asking for anything in return. Love is selfless when people put others before themselves. Sometimes it can’t be ethical if selflessness turns into a sacrifice that hurts the self in the process. As long as it creates a positive effect on the self while making sacrifices, then it is an ethical love.
Love pulls out people’s crazy attitudes. This is often done when they want to validate their feelings, ending up manipulating others in the process. Love does not become ethical when it calls jealousy, possessiveness, and clinginess. But while love can birth unethical actions, it certainly is worth it when done a just and ethical way.
