Ethics Archives

Racial Bias in the Criminal Justice System (Just Mercy)

Is there racial bias in the criminal justice system? Why was Walter McMillian convicted of a crime he didn’t commit? Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy examines the justice system’s pervasive failures toward marginalized populations, especially Black Americans. The case of Walter McMillian is a prime example of how a Black man was sentenced to death just because of racial bias. Let’s look at how racial bias can play a part in the justice system.

ChatGPT and Education: The Benefits & Dangers Explained

How can ChatGPT and education work together? What are the potential benefits or dangers of AI tools to education? When it comes to ChatGPT and education, the biggest fear of educators is that it will kill critical thinking. While some believe AI software will jeopardize the thinking and writing skills of students, others are more optimistic, arguing that ChatGPT could be used in education as a learning tool. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of ChatGPT in education, based on the educators’ perspective.

Mass Incarceration in the U.S.: The 4 Main Demographics

Why is mass incarceration in the U.S. a big problem? Who’s the most susceptible to being incarcerated in America? In Just Mercy, Bryan Stevenson finds that the U.S. justice system consistently doles out extreme punishments to the most vulnerable Americans. He discusses four demographics that are susceptible to unjust punishments: children, the intellectually disabled and mentally ill, veterans, and women. Find out why these groups of people are more likely to be victims of the corrupt justice system.

The 4 Worst Problems With the Criminal Justice System

What are the main problems with the criminal justice system? How can we fix our understanding of justice? The criminal justice system is far from perfect, but we can help get it there. Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy highlights the institutions that have corrupted how we view justice and offers solutions to guide us in the right direction. Continue reading to learn more about these problems and how we can fix them.

Children in Prison: Do They Deserve Life Without Parole?

Why does the criminal justice system put children in prison? Does imprisoning children violate the Eighth Amendment? The Eighth Amendment protects prisoners from excessive punishment. But Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy says that this amendment is violated when children are imprisoned with life-without-parole sentences. Decide if children in prison need to be protected by the Eighth Amendment below.

The 3 Best Just Mercy Quotes About Resisting Injustice

What are the best Just Mercy quotes to remember? What do these quotes say about the quality of the criminal justice system? In Just Mercy, Bryan Stevenson describes the injustice many incarcerated victims face when they’re sentenced to death row. Drawing from all the cases he worked on as a lawyer, Stevenson gives insightful commentary on corrupt justice and making things right in the system. Keep reading for the best quotes from Just Mercy with explanations.

Is Watching the News Bad for You? Pros & Cons of Graphic Content

Is watching the news bad for you? What are the psychological effects of watching graphic news content? In late January, the killing of Tyre Nichols was made available to the public through security camera video of the fatal beating. However, many debate the pros and cons of watching graphically violent videos in the news. Read on to learn about the effects of watching graphic news content and if it’s bad for you.

Empathic Listening Skills: The 3 Keys to Better Listening

What are empathic listening skills? How can you listen with empathy? Empathy requires you to give the other person your undivided attention. In 4 Essential Keys to Effective Communication, Bento C. Leal recommends three practices to develop your empathic listening skills. Keep reading to learn how to engage in conversations by listening.

Nietzsche on Virtue & Cultivating Your Unique Strengths

Curious to learn about Nietzsche’s virtue philosophy? What does he believe about human morality? In the 1880s, German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche wrote Thus Spoke Zarathustra to share his views on life, virtue, and philosophy in general. In the book, Nietzsche offers his perspective on cultivating your strengths as virtues. Read on to learn about Nietzsche’s views on virtue, according to Thus Spoke Zarathustra.

What Is Section 230? Social Media Immunity Explained

What is Section 230 in terms of social media companies? Why is it being challenged? U.S. Code Section 230 is a law saying companies that provide access to information via the internet are not liable for content posted by third parties. If the Supreme Court rules that Section 230 doesn’t apply to social media companies, they will likely block all controversial content to limit their liability. Read on to learn about Section 230 and how these changes may transform social media as we know it.