Examples Of Objective Consequentialism

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I just cannot decide. Is it right, wrong or ethical? This dialogue rages in our minds when we face a decision. Fortunately, there are several approaches that can help make ethical decisions. Two of the more prominent approaches are objective consequentialism and existentialism. The approach, application and methods of each differ and should be taken into consideration when formulating an ethical decision. “Consequentialism is an approach that argues that one must consider the ends or results of behavior rather than the intent or means used in order to render moral judgement; hence, it is situational” (Malloy, Ross and Zakus 2003). Malloy, Ross and Zakus (2003) explain that objective consequentialism is based on the test of correspondence which derive from the “teleological perspective of Aristotle. Happiness serves is the “endpoint of all of one’s efforts to flourish as a human being” (Malloy, Ross and Zakus, 2003). Furthermore, objective consequentialism (Malloy, Ross and Zakus, 2003) calls for one to live virtuously, which is based on one’s actions i.e., courage, wisdom, temperance and justice. Each is the mean between deficiency and …show more content…

“Objective consequentialism is an ethical theory of choice and of habit. The decision-maker has the capacity to choose behavior that is in accordance with virtue as well as to reject, ignore or remain ignorant of virtue” (Malloy, Ross and Zakus, 2003). Furthermore, “the decision-maker must become well-grounded in choosing the “golden mean” between extremes and have this become second nature in order to live virtuously” (Malloy, Ross and Zakus, 2003). In contrast, existentialism consist of authenticity (Malloy, Ross and Zakus, 2003). Authenticity implies one must be honest with oneself and those around them. This is easier said than done. The pressure that can be place on one can be insurmountable, however, one must be honest and stay true to

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