Universities, Cultural Diversity and Global Ethics 83From this bio-cultural approach to global ethics a set of core values
can be deduced which is very similar to the findings of Kidder and
Küng. Using the simple device of a distinction (but not separation)
between the roles of the understanding and action, respectively, in doing
what is right and good, the resultant set of core values can be grouped in
two related sets: those that express the various main facets of
beneficence (which means doing what is beneficial to others) and those
that express the various facets of integrity, understood as a commitment
to consistent truthfulness. Here are these values, slightly modified.
Beneficence values Integrity values
Generosity Truthfulness
Respect Reliability
Justice and fairness Trustworthiness
Inclusiveness Self-knowledge
Responsible, caring effort Open-mindedness
Freedom without harm Wisdom
Beauty Judicious criticality(Prozesky 2007:131)
There is thus ample justification from human nature, from reflective
experience across cultures, from philosophy, culture and religion for the
following conclusion about global ethics: “Our separate histories,
homelands and cultures have given the world a divided soul but not, at
heart, a divided conscience” (Prozesky 2007:144). The core emergent
principle of active concern for the common good provides an invaluable
basis for negotiating a fresh, respectful and fully inclusive way to forge
a truly inclusive global ethic and to handle the things about which our
cultures differ. It is here that an important opportunity exists for the
contemporary, multi-cultural university.