Ethics in the Modern Era: Challenges and Directions in the Contemporary World

Abstract

In the past decade, the world has entered a rapid transitional era driven by the impacts of digital technology, globalization, and a multitude of global crises—including economic instability, environmental degradation, international conflicts, and pandemics. These factors have profoundly challenged traditional moral frameworks and the role of morality in sustaining human coexistence in contemporary society. Morality, once regarded as a foundational principle guiding behavior, thought, and interpersonal relationships, is now confronted by the pressures of a modern context that emphasizes efficiency, convenience, and outcomes over ethical correctness Current global circumstances vividly illustrate the challenges facing morality. For example, the growing reliance on artificial intelligence to make decisions on behalf of humans has sparked debates regarding "responsibility" and "value-based judgment." Simultaneously, conflicts in various regions reflect a deterioration of fundamental moral values such as compassion, empathy, and justice. At the societal level, we witness increased instances of rights violations on social media, commercial deception, and unethical conduct in political and corporate spheres—raising serious questions about the stability of morality as a pillar of social cohesion.

          This article seeks to examine and analyze the state of morality in the modern era, highlighting its dynamic nature, its adaptation within the changing context of the globalized world, and the key challenges that affect its preservation and transmission—both at the individual and structural levels of society. Furthermore, it aims to propose directions for cultivating a moral framework that aligns with contemporary realities, fostering a society that is not only modern but also deeply rooted in humanity.