Ethics Cup

A select team of Christ’s Hospital students travelled to Caterham to compete in the regional round of the Ethics Cup competition on 14 January. The team performed impressively, earning praise from the judges for their clear thinking and open-minded engagement with the challenging issues presented. Although they won both of their matches on the day, a quirk of the scoring system meant they were nevertheless knocked out of the competition.

In their first match against Thomas Tallis, the team explored the ethics of whole-life orders, considering whether prisoners who demonstrate genuine remorse and a change in attitude should be eligible for reduced sentences. They also delivered a thoughtful presentation on suffrage, examining the ethics of allowing 16-year-olds and elderly voters to participate in elections. This prompted a lively discussion with both opponents and judges about capacity, autonomy and the right to vote.

A closely contested second match followed against Farnborough Sixth Form. CH presented on the ethics of providing healthcare to individuals injured as a result of alcohol consumption, drawing a moral equivalence between drinking and other risky activities such as extreme sports. They argued that healthcare should remain free and accessible at the point of use, regardless of how an injury is sustained. The team also engaged in debate about educational cruises that may cause environmental harm while also promoting conservation, leading to an interesting discussion on the distinction between good moral character and good moral judgement.

We are very grateful to Caterham for hosting a stimulating and intellectually rigorous day of debate.