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Writer's pictureSam Wilks

The Relationship Between Praxeology and the Study of Economic Ethics


When looking at the connection between economic ethics and praxeology, which is the study of how people act, it is important to first understand the basic rules that govern how people act and make choices in the economics field. This examination, while rooted in theoretical understanding, finds its true value when applied to real-world scenarios, such as those observed in the economic landscapes.


At its core, praxeology concerns itself with the systematic study of human action. It is predicated on the notion that individuals act purposefully to achieve their desired ends. This branch of study does not make moral judgments; instead, it seeks to understand the logical structure of human behaviour in economic contexts.


In contrast, the study of economic ethics introduces a moral dimension to these actions. It evaluates the rightness or wrongness of economic behaviours, decisions, and policies. It's a field that intertwines notions of justice, fairness, and the societal impacts of economic decisions. This is where a man with my security experience sits and contemplates.


Australia, with its unique economic landscape, offers a fertile ground for exploring this intersection. For instance, consider Australia's approach to environmental policies. The decision to prioritise environmental conservation over immediate economic gains, such as in the case of restricting coal mining or investing in renewable energy, reflects an ethical stance. Praxeology helps in understanding the economic behaviours resulting from these policies, while economic ethics evaluates the moral implications of these choices.


The Australian housing market provides a compelling case study. The decision by individuals to invest in real estate is a praxeological action aimed at securing financial stability. However, when this leads to skyrocketing property prices and housing affordability crises, economic ethics steps in to question the fairness and long-term societal impact of such market trends.


Individual economic actions, when aggregated, shape the ethical landscape of a society. The decision of Australian consumers to prefer ethically sourced products is a prime example. From a praxeological perspective, this reflects a shift in consumer preferences. However, from an ethical standpoint, it indicates a societal move towards more sustainable and equitable economic practices.


Government policies in Australia, such as tax reforms or welfare programs, are another area where praxeology and economic ethics intersect. Praxeology assists in understanding how individuals will likely respond to these policies. In contrast, economic ethics questions the fairness and justness of these policies, considering their impact on different segments of society., both positively and negatively.


During economic crises, such as the global financial crisis or the COVID-19 pandemic, these studies become even more critical. The Australian government's response to such crises, through stimulus packages or support schemes, was not just an economic decision but also an ethical one. The balance between stimulating economic activity and ensuring fair support for all sections of society is an ethical dilemma.


The relationship between praxeology and the study of economic ethics is both dynamic and vital. Understanding this relationship offers deeper insights into not only the economic actions of individuals and governments but also the moral implications of these actions. Various Australian examples, from environmental policies to housing markets and government responses to crises, show how this interplay shapes the economic and moral landscape of a society.


It is through this lens that one can fully appreciate the complexities and nuances of economic behaviour and its ethical ramifications. Australia is a nation of moral exhibitionists, many of whom would only carry out tasks if paid for by others and who do not accept responsibility for their deeds or failures. This lack of morals and economic ethics is hard for many to accept. However, these failures are carried out by people, and time is not linear. I live in hope that, through experience and education, those who willfully take from others for their own comfort grow to be better and regulate such behaviour in the future. From the author.


The opinions and statements are those of Sam Wilks and do not necessarily represent whom Sam Consults or contracts to. Sam Wilks is a skilled and experienced Security Consultant with almost 3 decades of expertise in the fields of Real estate, Security, and the hospitality/gaming industry. His knowledge and practical experience have made him a valuable asset to many organizations looking to enhance their security measures and provide a safe and secure environment for their clients and staff.

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