Moral theories as tools in programme evaluation

Abstract

This article discusses the nature of programme evaluation. Its main focus is to explain the role of moral values in programme evaluation. It argues that the idea of value neutrality which is popular in scientific discourse is mistaken and impossible to realize. This is because evaluation necessarily involves value judgements which express the values of the evaluator. The article demonstrates how values, especially moral values, come into the scientific processes of describing, analyzing and evaluating programmes. This is done through discussion of three different types of moral theories, that is, egoism, utilitarianism and duty-focused theories


African Journal of Social Work Vol.17(1) 2002: 7-18