How ethics can help you make better decisions | Michael Schur (re-release)

TED Talks Daily: Episode Summary

Title: How Ethics Can Help You Make Better Decisions | Michael Schur (Re-release)
Host/Author: TED
Original Release Date: July 2022
Summary Release Date: August 4, 2025

Introduction

In the enlightening episode of TED Talks Daily, writer and producer Michael Schur delves into the profound impact that ethical theories can have on everyday decision-making. Known for his work on acclaimed television shows such as The Office and The Good Place, Schur shares a personal narrative that underscores the importance of understanding philosophy to navigate moral dilemmas effectively.

Michael Schur's Background and Personal Story

Michael Schur begins by recounting a pivotal moment in his life that ignited his passion for ethics. He humorously reflects on his meticulous nature, highlighting his childhood penchant for following rules to the letter.

"I've always been an intense rule follower... I rinse my mouth with mouthwash for at least 30 seconds every night, because on the label it says use for 30 seconds." ([02:39])

Schur's journey into the study of ethics was catalyzed by a personal mishap in 2005—a minor car accident that spiraled into an ethical quandary during the tumultuous times of Hurricane Katrina. This incident serves as the cornerstone of his exploration into moral philosophy.

The Ethical Dilemma and Real-Life Example

Schur narrates the story of his wife’s fender bender during Hurricane Katrina:

"My wife, JJ, driving along in slow-moving traffic, bumps into the guy in front of her... we get a notice that the guy wants $836 because according to him, the entire fender needs to be replaced." ([04:30])

Faced with this unexpected claim, Schur initially dismisses the severity of the damage, suggesting that minor car dents are commonplace and trivial compared to the broader catastrophe of Hurricane Katrina. His attempt to resolve the issue by offering a donation to the Red Cross instead of paying the claim unintentionally garners overwhelming support from his network, escalating the situation beyond his control.

"In like a day and a half, I had pledges from hundreds of people all across the country of more than $25,000 if this guy would agree not to file an insurance claim and fix his car." ([07:15])

This well-intentioned yet ethically flawed maneuver led Schur and his wife to confront feelings of guilt and confusion, prompting a deeper dive into philosophical ethics.

Philosophical Theories Explored

1. Immanuel Kant and the Categorical Imperative

Schur introduces Kant’s principle, emphasizing the importance of universalizability in ethical decision-making.

"Kant says, when we're about to do something, we have to design a rule or a maxim that we could will to be universal... Would it get all screwed up?" ([10:45])

Applying this to his situation, Schur realizes that using unrelated global calamities to influence personal negotiations would be untenable if everyone adopted such behavior.

2. Aristotle and Virtue Ethics

Next, Schur explores Aristotle’s virtue ethics, which advocate for cultivating moral virtues to achieve a balanced character.

"Aristotle says there are certain qualities we should all have... things like generosity and courage and friendliness and mildness." ([12:30])

Schur acknowledges his excess of anger and deficiency in friendliness, recognizing the need for balance in his actions and emotions.

3. Utilitarianism (Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill)

Schur discusses utilitarianism’s focus on the consequences of actions, weighing the overall happiness against the pain caused.

"Utilitarians only care about the results of our actions... the happiness I'm creating outweighs the amount of pain and suffering." ([16:20])

However, he contemplates the broader societal impact, questioning whether the initial positive outcome truly outweighs the negative feelings and potential moral decay such actions could foster.

Application of Ethical Theories to Decision Making

Through his philosophical exploration, Schur confronts his ethical missteps and seeks guidance from academia. Engaging with philosophy professors, he gains insights into applying ethical theories to real-life situations.

"Understanding ethical theories is how we increase our chances of success at simply being human beings who have to negotiate with other human beings." ([25:10])

He emphasizes that while philosophical knowledge doesn't guarantee flawless decision-making, it enhances one's ability to handle complex moral dilemmas more thoughtfully and effectively.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ultimately, Schur rectifies his mistake by apologizing to the individual involved and ensuring the substantial donation to the Red Cross is fulfilled. This experience solidifies his belief in the value of ethical understanding as a foundational tool for personal and societal betterment.

"By reading theories of ethics and understanding what they say... you will increase the chances that you sink the shot or that you at least get the ball close enough to the rim that you don't embarrass yourself." ([33:00])

Schur concludes by urging listeners to embrace ethical studies not as abstract concepts but as practical guides to enhancing human interactions and decisions.

"To me, there is nothing more important than that." ([34:15])

Key Takeaways

Personal Growth through Ethics: Schur’s journey illustrates how personal challenges can lead to profound philosophical insights.
Practical Application of Philosophical Theories: Understanding Kant, Aristotle, and utilitarianism provides frameworks for making informed and compassionate decisions.
Ethics as a Tool for Better Humanity: Ethical awareness fosters better interpersonal relations and societal well-being.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

"I've always been an intense rule follower... I rinse my mouth with mouthwash for at least 30 seconds every night." ([02:39])
"Kant says, when we're about to do something, we have to design a rule or a maxim that we could will to be universal... Would it get all screwed up?" ([10:45])
"Aristotle says there are certain qualities we should all have... things like generosity and courage and friendliness and mildness." ([12:30])
"Utilitarians only care about the results of our actions... the happiness I'm creating outweighs the amount of pain and suffering." ([16:20])
"Understanding ethical theories is how we increase our chances of success at simply being human beings who have to negotiate with other human beings." ([25:10])
"By reading theories of ethics and understanding what they say... you will increase the chances that you sink the shot or that you at least get the ball close enough to the rim that you don't embarrass yourself." ([33:00])
"To me, there is nothing more important than that." ([34:15])

Final Thoughts

Michael Schur’s TED Talk serves as a compelling reminder of the significance of ethical contemplation in our daily lives. By intertwining personal anecdotes with philosophical discourse, he effectively illustrates how ethics can guide us through moral uncertainties, ultimately fostering a more considerate and just society.