CURRENT RESEARCH JOURNAL OF PHILOLOGICAL SCIENCES (ISSN: 2767-3758)
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VOLUME:
Vol.06 Issue07 2025
Page: - 01-05
RESEARCH ARTICLE
The Co-creation of Ethical Frameworks: Navigating Societal
Prescriptions and Individual Moral Agency in Contemporary
Contexts
Nikola Petrovic
Faculty of Philology, University of Belgrade, Serbia
Bojan Simic
Faculty of Philology, University of Belgrade, Serbia
Received:
03 May 2025
Accepted:
02 June 2025
Published:
01 July 2025
INTRODUCTION
The question of how societies establish and maintain their
moral frameworks has long been a central inquiry across
the humanities and social sciences. Are moral principles
objective truths discovered by individuals, or are they
products of collective human endeavor? This article posits
that moral realities are neither purely objective nor entirely
subjective, but rather arise from a complex interplay
between the two. We propose a nuanced understanding of
this "co-creation," where societal norms, institutional
structures, and historical contingencies profoundly shape
the landscape of moral discourse, while individuals retain
a crucial capacity for ethical reflection, interpretation, and
action.
Traditional philosophical approaches have often sought to
identify universal moral principles, while sociological
perspectives have highlighted the social origins of values
and beliefs. This article seeks to bridge this divide by
examining how shared understandings, embedded in social
norms, provide the foundational grammar for moral
reasoning, even as individuals actively engage in the
interpretation, application, and sometimes, the subversion
of these norms. We contend that understanding the
dynamic interaction between societal prescriptions and
individual moral agency is crucial for comprehending the
evolution and challenges of ethical life in contemporary
societies.
ABSTRACT
This article explores the intricate relationship between socially constructed norms and individual ethical subjectivity in sha ping
moral realities within contemporary societies. Drawing on diverse theoretical perspectives from sociology, philosophy, and
political theory, we argue that moral frameworks are not static or universally given, but rather emerge from a dynamic interplay
of collective understanding, institutional practices, and individual interpretations. We examine how social norms, reinforced
through various mechanisms, influence and constrain ethical choices, while simultaneously acknowledging the persistent capacity
for individual agency and the potential for moral dissent and innovation. The paper delves into the mechanisms by which moral
consensus is forged and challenged, considering the roles of language, power structures, recognition, and the ongoing negotiation
of identity. Ultimately, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex processes through which
moral realities are continuously co-created and contested in a pluralistic world.
Keywords:
Moral reality, social construction, ethical subjectivity, social norms, agency, recognition, identity.
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The concept of "social construction" serves as a
foundational lens for this inquiry, emphasizing that many
aspects of our reality, including morality, are not natural
but are products of human interaction and agreement [1].
However, this perspective alone is insufficient to capture
the full complexity. It is equally important to consider the
role of individual "ethical subjectivity," which refers to the
unique moral consciousness, values, and decision-making
processes that characterize each person [27]. This article
seeks to synthesize these two crucial dimensions,
providing a comprehensive account of how moral realities
are forged and continuously re-negotiated.
Theoretical Framework: The Interplay of Social
Construction and Ethical Subjectivity
Our theoretical framework is built upon the premise that
moral realities are inherently relational, emerging from the
ongoing dialogue between the collective and the
individual. This section delineates the key theoretical
strands that inform our analysis.
The Social Construction of Moral Realities
The idea that reality is socially constructed, as eloquently
articulated by Berger and Luckmann, posits that human
beings collectively create and sustain the meaning
structures of their world [1].1 Applied to morality, this
implies that ethical principles, values, and even the very
notion of what constitutes a "moral problem" are not pre-
given but are products of shared human experience and
consensus. Searle further elaborates on this, distinguishing
between "brute facts" and "institutional facts," with moral
norms largely falling into the latter category, dependent on
collective recognition and agreement [7, 13].2
Social norms, broadly defined as shared expectations about
appropriate behavior, play a pivotal role in this
construction process [6]. They are internalized by
individuals through socialization, becoming seemingly
natural and self-evident guides for conduct [4, 14]. These
norms can be explicit, such as laws or religious tenets, or
implicit, embedded in customs, traditions, and everyday
interactions.3 Bourdieu's concept of "habitus" illuminates
how these social norms become embodied dispositions,
influencing our perceptions, thoughts, and actions often
unconsciously [10].4
Power structures also profoundly shape the construction of
moral realities. Foucault, for instance, demonstrates how
discourses of power define what is considered "normal"
and "deviant," thereby influencing the boundaries of
acceptable moral conduct and establishing systems of
discipline and punishment [2].5 The prevailing societal
norms often reflect the interests and values of dominant
groups, leading to the marginalization or suppression of
alternative moral perspectives [20, 22].
The Emergence of Ethical Subjectivity
While social norms exert significant influence, they do not
entirely determine individual morality. Ethical subjectivity
highlights the active role of individuals in interpreting,
internalizing, and sometimes resisting these norms. Mead's
work on the "social self" is crucial here, demonstrating how
the self emerges through social interaction and the
internalization of the attitudes of others, yet still retains a
unique perspective [5]. Taylor further explores the
"sources of the self," emphasizing the complex moral
frameworks and narratives individuals construct to make
sense of their lives and guide their actions [6, 29].
Individuals engage in a continuous process of moral
reasoning, weighing competing values, responding to
novel situations, and making choices that may align with
or diverge from established norms. This capacity for moral
agency is essential for societal change and the evolution of
ethical understanding. Even in the face of pervasive social
pressures, individuals can question, challenge, and
ultimately redefine what is considered morally right or
wrong [26].
The Dialectic of Structure and Agency
Giddens' theory of structuration offers a valuable
framework for understanding the ongoing dialectical
relationship between social structures (including norms)
and individual agency [3].6 Structures enable and constrain
action, while actions simultaneously reproduce and
transform structures.7 In the context of morality, this
means that while social norms provide the framework for
ethical conduct, individual choices and interpretations
constantly re-shape and re-negotiate these norms.
Habermas's theory of communicative action provides
another crucial lens, emphasizing the role of rational
discourse in reaching moral consensus and resolving
ethical dilemmas [4]. Through open and uncoerced
communication, individuals can critically examine existing
norms, articulate their own moral perspectives, and work
CURRENT RESEARCH JOURNAL OF PHILOLOGICAL SCIENCES (ISSN: 2767-3758)
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towards mutually agreeable solutions. This highlights the
dynamic and potentially transformative nature of moral
realities.
Mechanisms of Moral Co-creation
The co-creation of moral realities occurs through a variety
of interconnected mechanisms, ranging from explicit
social institutions to subtle interpersonal interactions.
Language and Narrative
Language is fundamental to the construction and
transmission of moral realities [16]. Through shared
vocabulary, metaphors, and narratives, societies define
moral
concepts,
articulate
values,
and
establish
frameworks for understanding ethical dilemmas. The
stories we tell ourselves about what is good or bad, just or
unjust, profoundly shape our moral imaginations and guide
our actions [27]. The evolution of language itself can
reflect shifts in moral understanding.
Institutions and Practices
Formal institutions, such as legal systems, educational
bodies, and religious organizations, play a significant role
in codifying and enforcing moral norms. They establish
rules, sanctions, and educational curricula that transmit
ethical principles across generations [2]. However,
informal practices, rituals, and everyday interactions also
contribute to the ongoing reinforcement and occasional
subversion of moral realities [10].
Recognition and Identity
Honneth's theory of recognition underscores the profound
link between social recognition and individual moral
development [8]. The struggle for recognition, whether in
terms of rights, respect, or esteem, is often a struggle for
the validation of one's identity and moral worth. When
individuals or groups are denied recognition, it can lead to
moral outrage and social conflict, prompting challenges to
existing moral orders [23, 20]. Butler further highlights
how gender and other social categories are performatively
constructed, impacting how individuals are recognized and
how moral norms are applied to them [9]. The ongoing
negotiation of identity, both individual and collective, is
thus a continuous process of moral co-creation [19].
Moral Deliberation and Conflict
Moral realities are not always harmonious or settled.
Disagreements and conflicts over values are inherent to
pluralistic societies. Rawls's concept of "justice as
fairness" provides a framework for how individuals in a
society might agree upon principles of justice, even when
they hold diverse comprehensive moral doctrines [11].
However, MacIntyre highlights the challenges of
achieving moral consensus in the absence of a shared
teleology, suggesting that moral discourse in contemporary
society often lacks a coherent framework [12].8 The very
act of moral deliberation, whether in public discourse or
private reflection, involves the active engagement of
individual ethical subjectivity with existing social norms,
leading
to
the
potential
for
re-evaluation
and
transformation [24].
Contemporary Challenges and Future Directions
In contemporary societies, the co-creation of moral
realities faces several significant challenges. The rapid
pace of technological change, globalization, and increasing
cultural diversity often lead to moral ambiguities and
conflicts.
The Crisis of Moral Authority
Bauman's concept of "postmodern ethics" highlights the
erosion of traditional moral authorities and the rise of a
more fluid and individualized ethical landscape [15]. This
can lead to a sense of moral relativism, where universally
accepted ethical standards become elusive. However, this
fluidity also presents opportunities for greater individual
autonomy in moral decision-making. Rorty further
suggests that in a contingent world, moral progress comes
not from discovering universal truths, but from expanding
our capacity for empathy and solidarity with others [18].
Navigating Pluralism and Difference
Modern societies are characterized by a profound diversity
of values and worldviews.9 Young's work on "justice and
the politics of difference" emphasizes the need to move
beyond universalizing moral frameworks to address the
specific needs and experiences of marginalized groups
[20]. Fraser's concept of "justice interruptus" similarly
calls for a critical examination of how power relations
shape the distribution of recognition and resources, which
are inextricably linked to moral claims [22]. The challenge
lies in fostering a common ethical ground that respects
fundamental human dignity while accommodating
CURRENT RESEARCH JOURNAL OF PHILOLOGICAL SCIENCES (ISSN: 2767-3758)
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legitimate differences [19, 21].
The Role of Emotions in Moral Judgment
While often viewed as distinct from rationality, emotions
play a crucial role in shaping moral judgments and
motivating ethical action [30].10 Nussbaum argues for the
"intelligence of emotions," demonstrating how feelings
like compassion, anger, and empathy are integral to our
moral understanding. Dewey, similarly, emphasized the
interconnectedness of human nature and conduct,
suggesting that moral choices are deeply intertwined with
our lived experiences and emotions [24].11 Recognizing
the affective dimension of ethical subjectivity is crucial for
a complete understanding of moral co-creation.
Towards a Dynamic and Reflexive Morality
Moving forward, understanding the co-creation of moral
realities necessitates a commitment to ongoing dialogue,
critical reflection, and adaptive ethical frameworks. It
requires acknowledging that moral truths are not fixed but
are continually negotiated and re-imagined through
collective and individual efforts [25, 28]. This involves
fostering a public sphere where diverse moral voices can
be heard and deliberated [4], and recognizing that ethical
progress often stems from the ongoing struggle for
recognition and justice [8]. Hacking's work on "the social
construction of what?" reminds us to be critical of what we
deem
socially
constructed,
while
simultaneously
recognizing
the
profound
impact
of
collective
understandings [16]. Arendt's concept of "the human
condition" underscores the inherent plurality of human
existence, necessitating a moral framework that embraces
and navigates difference [17].
CONCLUSION
The moral landscape of contemporary societies is a
dynamic tapestry woven from the threads of social norms
and individual ethical subjectivity. This article has argued
that moral realities are not simply given but are actively co-
created through a continuous interplay of collective
understandings, institutional practices, and individual
interpretations. While social norms provide the essential
framework and grammar for moral discourse, individual
agency, fueled by reflection, empathy, and the struggle for
recognition, constantly reshapes and redefines these
norms.
Understanding this intricate co-creation process is essential
for navigating the complex ethical challenges of our time.
It calls for a nuanced approach that acknowledges both the
power of societal influences and the enduring capacity of
individuals to act as moral agents. By fostering open
dialogue, promoting critical reflection, and recognizing the
diverse sources of moral wisdom, we can collectively
strive to construct more just, equitable, and humane moral
realities for the future. The ongoing negotiation between
the "is" of social facts and the "ought" of moral ideals
remains a fundamental task, one that will continue to shape
the contours of our shared ethical world.
REFERENCES
Berger, P. L., & Luckmann, T. (1966). The social
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Foucault, M. (1977). Discipline and punish: The birth of
the prison (A. Sheridan, Trans.). Pantheon Books.12
Giddens, A. (1984). The constitution of society: Outline of
the theory of structuration. University of California Press.
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Mead, G. H. (1934). Mind, self, and society. University of
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Taylor, C. (1989). Sources of the self: The making of the
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Press.
Honneth, A. (1996). The struggle for recognition: The
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Polity Press.13
Butler, J. (1990). Gender trouble: Feminism and the
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Bourdieu, P. (1977). Outline of a theory of practice (R.
Nice, Trans.). Cambridge University Press.
Rawls, J. (1971). A theory of justice. Harvard University
Press.
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MacIntyre, A. (1981). After virtue: A study in moral
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