LA CUESTIÓN DE LOS FUNDAMENTOS EN LA ÉTICA DE LONERGAN

Abstract

Coming from the transcendental method of Lonergan, this article offers an explanation of how understanding ethics as existential ethics leads us to leave to one side metaphysical-abstract categories and invites us to an ethical reflection using categories which arise from acts of our conscience. Moral conscience shows itself to be decisive in making decisions; inclusive, in so far as it integrates the levels of understanding and judgment and uplifting, in so far as it is open to a possible superior integration, given that the transcendental notion of value can be intrinsically enriched by the religious experience of being totally enamored.Using the transcendental method, to make explicit the basic principles, allows one to take into account the reality of man as a historic being in transformation and to integrate moral and religious experience in the understanding of ethical behaviour. In this way ethical thought is based on living history, which is made evident in the self-making of the individuals and the self-building of the moral life of a community or a people.