Abstract

Due to the ethical challenges in the practice of law in Colombia, this study employs a qualitative methodology to explore the ethical values essential for the education and professional practice of lawyers, aiming to address to this social issue. The theoretical framework includes a review of the concepts of ethics, morals and ethical values, as well as their philosophical foundations based on the perspectives of Aristotle and Martha Nussbaum, to identify the philosophical principles relevant to the analysis. Through semi-structured interviews conducted with law professionals who also serve as university professors, the study examines their perspectives on the essential ethical values required in both areas under investigation. The findings highlight critical thinking as a key ethical value in legal practice. Finally, the study offers a set of recommendations to help mitigate ethical issues by fostering critical thinking in legal education. These recommendations focus on three key strategies: establishing an institutional hierarchy of values, implementing active learning methodologies, and ensuring the consistent application of ethical values by both teachers and students. By integrating these approaches within academic settings, this study aims to influence legal practices, fostering a more ethically responsible professional environment.

Keywords:
axiology; critical thinking; values; ethics; law