Irene Doura Kavadia

Introduction

The concept of global responsibility has become central to the discourse surrounding the resolution of major issues facing humanity. As the social fabric and various societies become increasingly interconnected, the moral obligation for collective action extends beyond the narrow boundaries of a nation-state. Classical philosophy, with its timeless teachings, and practical philosophy, which focuses on applied ethics to address modern dilemmas, offer powerful tools for cultivating a strong sense of global responsibility.

It is clear that contemporary societies face unprecedented challenges that demand responsibility and global cooperation. Issues such as the need for planetary sustainability, inequalities (including those exacerbated by technological advancements), and social disparities come to the forefront.

In this context, the contribution of both classical and practical philosophy is vital for understanding global responsibility and shaping ethical guidelines. This presentation aims to examine how classical and practical philosophy can contribute to the development of this sense of responsibility, focusing on their relationship with the rapid development of science and technology, which affects the entire social fabric on a global scale.

Classical Philosophy and Global Responsibility

Classical philosophy, beginning with the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, lays the foundation for the development of moral virtues and the cultivation of “eudaimonia” (well-being). The idea of collective responsibility and solidarity formed the basis for ethical philosophy and the sense of duty towards the community. Socrates, through his dialectic method, emphasized the importance of personal responsibility for the improvement of society. The classical notion of “virtue” is directly linked to the idea of responsibility, as virtuous citizens strive for the common good, not just their personal benefit or interests. Plato, through his Republic, developed the concept of justice as a central virtue of society, while Aristotle, in his Nicomachean Ethics, emphasized that happiness (eudaimonia) is achieved through just actions. According to his philosophy, ethics are not theoretical but practical, and closely tied to the individual’s responsibility for their actions.
In relation to modern issues, the teachings of ancient philosophers have a timeless relevance. Environmental crises caused by the reckless exploitation of natural resources, and inequalities—now further exacerbated by technological advances—are problems that require an ethical approach based on principles of justice and virtue. For example, Aristotle’s principle of “the golden mean” can be applied to technology: excessive reliance on it can lead to inequalities and negative consequences in many areas, while rejecting it altogether would deprive society of its benefits. The inability of the state and society to manage inequalities often leads to conflicts and even global crises that require collective responsibility for their resolution. Increasingly, global unity based on solidarity and fraternity is needed to prevent violent conflicts on an international level.

Practical Philosophy and Applied Ethics

Practical philosophy focuses on solving contemporary ethical dilemmas such as resource inequality, bioethics, and the impact of technological progress. Philosophers like Kant, with his categorical imperative, propose ethics that promote individual responsibility towards humanity as a whole. Practical philosophy and applied ethics aim to offer solutions to specific moral problems that humanity faces. One of the main fields of practical philosophy is bioethics, which addresses ethical issues arising from scientific and medical advances. Since the 1970s, when bioethics began to develop as an autonomous field, philosophers have tried to answer questions related to society’s responsibility for the use of genetic technology (e.g., cloning), biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.

Practical philosophy emphasizes the need to consider the consequences of our actions and choices globally and over time. Peter Singer, for instance, addresses global poverty and advocates the idea that our ethical responsibility extends beyond national borders. In The Life You Can Save, Singer argues that individuals in wealthy countries have a moral obligation to help those suffering from extreme poverty, providing a framework of global moral responsibility rooted in the classical idea of philanthropy. The ethics of responsibility also call upon states and their citizens to act to protect the environment and reduce the depletion of the planet’s finite resources, a practice primarily carried out by developed nations, which disproportionately affects – as is customary – the most vulnerable.

Science and Philosophy

The relationship between science and philosophy is deep and interdependent. Science, often focused on discovering the truth about the physical world, needs philosophy to define the ethical frameworks within which it should operate. Nuclear energy, for example, is a characteristic case where scientific progress can have dreadful consequences if not guided by ethical principles. For instance, the debate on the ethics of artificial intelligence analyses how the use of algorithms can reinforce social inequalities and affect global labour and economy. The absence of philosophical thought in science can lead to dangerous developments, as humanity has unfortunately experienced in the recent past. The development of nuclear weapons and the destruction they caused in Hiroshima and Nagasaki is one of the most characteristic examples where science escaped ethical barriers and control. A philosophy of moral responsibility could have prevented such developments through the promotion of international ethical principles.

Philosophical Revolution as a Means for Global Responsibility

The inability – and worse – unwillingness of states to cooperate with each other and the lack of ethical governance has intensified global crises. Philosophy has historically been an invaluable source of wisdom for addressing humanity’s greatest challenges. Faced with contemporary global problems, the need for a new model of global responsibility is becoming increasingly urgent. Through principles of justice, virtue, and harmony, philosophy can offer the new model required for shaping a humane, sustainable, and prosperous future.

Environmental Protection through Philosophy and the Integration of Justice into Global Policies

Classical philosophers, such as Aristotle, emphasized that justice is the fundamental virtue that ensures the balance and well-being of society. In the context of protecting our planet, in the modern era the emerges concept of “climate justice”, recognizing that the poorest countries and the most vulnerable societies are the most affected by the environmental crisis, even though they have contributed the least to it. Here, justice demands that developed countries take greater responsibility. For example, the Paris Agreement, an international treaty to address the climate crisis, represents a step towards climate justice. It promotes cooperation among countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reflecting the philosophical principle of global solidarity and responsibility.

Inequality, in whatever form it takes, is another issue that philosophy can illuminate through the principle of justice. Today’s enormous economic inequality, combined with unequal access to basic resources and infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and technology, creates conditions of social injustice that threaten social cohesion. Philosophy, especially the theories of social justice and equality for all, can offer guidelines for creating more just societies. Kant, for example, emphasizes that people must be treated as “ends” and not merely as “means”, indicating the need to prioritize human dignity and equal rights for everyone.

Technological Progress, Ethical Challenges, and the Necessity of a Philosophical Revolution

Technological progress, such as artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and digital globalization, demands ethical guidance to avoid both inequalities and abuses. Philosophers like Habermas argue that technology should not evolve without the moral consent of society. Transparency, ethical accountability, and participatory decision-making are necessary for the proper use of technology for the benefit of all, not just an elite. Humanity stands at a critical juncture where global crises require a profound philosophical and, certainly, peaceful revolution. Philosophy should no longer be limited to theoretical reflections but actively integrated into political and social structures, as it can form the foundation for creating a new global model that ensures harmony between science, economy, society, and environment.

Collective Action in Global Cohesion and the Role of Education

To achieve truly sustainable change, collective action at a global level is required, in form of cooperation among nations and communities, aimed at developing a culture that promotes solidarity, justice, and sustainability. Each society should recognize the global responsibility it bears and work together with others to find solutions that ensure the welfare of all. Education – as everywhere else – plays a central role in this process. By teaching philosophical values and critical thinking, we can prepare future generations to think responsibly and ethically, understanding the impacts of their actions on the world. The incorporation of philosophy into the educational system encourages the continuous pursuit of knowledge and self-awareness, promoting individual and collective responsibility. From the earliest educational levels, children around the world – the grassroots – should be nurtured with these universal values, which have always been at the centre of every sustainable solution.

Conclusion

Taking all the above into consideration, the challenges we face nowadays are great, nonetheless the solution lies in our hands. Philosophy can provide us with the framework, but ultimately, our actions are those to determine the future. Humanity now – more than ever before – needs a new philosophical approach that incorporates global responsibility, humanitarianism, and sustainability. Therefore, the contribution of both classical and practical philosophy to the development of a sense of global responsibility is undeniable. By recognizing global responsibility and the need for ethical governance, philosophical values can become the beacon that guides us toward a better, sustainable, and fairer world. Only in this way can we achieve the cohesion and harmony necessary for the welfare of humanity – one that we all deserve and wish for.

Irene Doura Kavadia
Editor-in-Chief
Writers International Edition

Bibliography

Online Resources

1. World Economic Forum. “The Global Risks Report 2024.” WEF.
2. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “Education for Sustainable Development.”
3. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: “Kant’s Moral Philosophy” – https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/kant-moral/
4. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: “Plato” – https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/plato/
5. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: “Aristotle” – https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/aristotle/
6. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: “Jürgen Habermas” – https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/habermas/
7. Internet Classics Archive