Final answer:
Ethical considerations are multifaceted and not solely based on harm or societal perception of good. There are various philosophical arguments and ethical theories that inform our understanding of morality, reflecting the complexity and diversity of ethical reasoning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of what is considered ethical in society is indeed complex and cannot be solely determined by whether an action causes harm or is perceived as good. Ethical considerations often involve a delicate balance of various factors, including societal norms, consequences, and underlying principles. The question posed reflects a utilitarian perspective, suggesting that actions that do not cause harm and are deemed good by society are ethical, but this view does not encompass all ethical theories and perspectives.
For instance, the Euthyphro Dilemma challenges the notion that the good is simply what is commanded by a divine power, suggesting that morality exists independently of such commands. Philosophers such as G.E. Moore have critiqued the notion of defining good through other good elements as being circular reasoning. Meanwhile, teleological theories propose that the consequences of an act, such as the pleasure it brings, are what determine its moral value. However, views on what constitutes pleasure and how it should be weighed can also vary dramatically.
Furthermore, theories such as ethical naturalism posit that what is good is what aligns with human nature or natural laws, while others consider the collective human institutions and shared values as the foundations of ethical frameworks. Lastly, when considering actions on a societal level, such as in wartime scenarios, the proportionality of harm and benefit must be evaluated, adding another layer of complexity to the concept of ethical action.