Global Ethics – Scenarios for the Future 33influence or domination from outside this entity. Model 6 called Glocal-
isation combines global values with local implementation. The perspec-
tive is global, but it can become concrete only on the ground. It is anoth-
er form of contextualisation.
2.6 Three Theories of Global Ethics
There are various theoretical concepts of global ethics (on the level
of meta-ethics: reflections about the methodology of ethics^9 ). Three
main theories can be summarized as follows (It is not the place here for
a detailed and critical validation of the three):
a) Essentialist Theory- Morality and values are essentially determined by the true nature
of some aspects of the world - The Moral order is the extension of the natural order/natural law
- Ethical values are therefore universal
b) Convergence Theory - Behind different contextual values is a convergence of principles
- Descriptive model within this theory: common principles exist,
visible or invisible - Normative model within this theory: common principles should
be developed.
c) Contractual Theory - a value/norm is binding for those who have consented to it
- People‘s consent is necessary and sufficient for the justification
of a value/norm.
9
See also Hentsch, Ariane / Premawardhana, Shanta, Sharing Values. A Herme-
neutics for Global Ethics, Geneva: Globethics Publications, 2011.