Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism is a moral theory that has long been the subject of philosophical debate. This theory, when practiced, appears to set a very basic guideline to follow when one is faced with a moral dilemma. Fundamental Utilitarianism states that when a moral dilemma arises, one should take action that causes favorable results or reduces less favorable results. If these less favorable results, or pain, occur from this action, it can be justified if it is produced to prevent more pain or produce happiness. Stating the Utilitarian view can summarize these basic principles: "the greatest good for the greatest number". Utilitarians are to believe that if they follow this philosophy, that no matter what action they take, it will be the correct one if it achieves useful results. Williams says that utilitarianism can sometimes bring about undesirable outcomes because of the fact that it forces one to violate his/her convictions or "lower-order projects" which in turn cannot account for integrity or "coherently describe the relations between man's projects and his actions (Singer: 340)."

Utilitarianism contains many important characteristics, but Bernard Williams claims that integrity cannot be entered into the utilitarian debate. His reasoning is that "each of us is specially responsible for what he does, rather than what other people do (Singer: 340)." A Utilitarian has "the general project of bringing about the maximally desirable outcomes (Singer: 341)." The way one accomplishes this depends on which variables or "casual levers" are attainable at that point in time (Singer: 341). In other words, the way one acts or reacts to certain situations that may occur is in effect towards the collective good. This r...

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... What if the bus driver did not value human life? He probably would not think twice about taking the route with just one person in the way. It seems to me that the determining factor is what each individual holds as an integral fundamental belief in his/her life. If I were to be placed in the situation of Jim, I would definitely not be able to kill an innocent man. My reason for this is because I personally hold the value of human life very high on my list of values. The effects of my shooting the Indian would cause much mental and physical anguish. At the same time

The Utilitarian view on these examples would be that Jim would have to be prepared to sacrifice his integrity for the lives of the others. He would no doubtedly feel bad about killing an innocent man, (and could possibly not be able to actually do it) but it must be done for the greater good.