Primary difference between consequentialist and non-consequentialist approaches to ethics.

 

) In your own words, describe the primary difference between consequentialist and non-consequentialist approaches to ethics.

2) Choose one of the major theories associated with consequentialism: what objections might be made to this theory?

3) Choose one of the major theories associated with non-consequentialism: what objections might be made to this theory?

 

Sample Solution

Consequentialist approaches to ethics judge the morality of an action based on its consequences. The best action is the one that produces the best consequences for the greatest number of people.

Non-consequentialist approaches to ethics judge the morality of an action based on other factors, such as the intentions of the actor or the nature of the action itself. For example, a deontological approach to ethics judges the morality of an action based on whether it follows a set of moral rules, while a virtue ethics approach judges the morality of an action based on whether it reflects good character.

Here are some of the objections that have been made to consequentialist approaches to ethics:

  • It is difficult to predict the consequences of our actions. It is often impossible to know for sure what the consequences of our actions will be. This makes it difficult to use a consequentialist approach to ethics, as we may not be able to choose the action that will produce the best consequences.
  • It can lead to morally unacceptable actions. If we only consider the consequences of our actions, we may be led to do things that are morally wrong. For example, if we could kill one person to save the lives of five people, a consequentialist might argue that we should kill the one person, even though this would be murder.
  • It ignores the rights of individuals. A consequentialist approach to ethics may ignore the rights of individuals in favor of the greater good. For example, a consequentialist might argue that it is okay to violate the rights of a few people if it means that the majority of people will benefit.

Here are some of the objections that have been made to non-consequentialist approaches to ethics:

  • It is too rigid. Non-consequentialist approaches to ethics can be too rigid and inflexible. For example, a deontologist might argue that it is always wrong to lie, even if lying would save someone’s life.
  • It is impractical. It can be difficult to follow a non-consequentialist approach to ethics in the real world. For example, it may be difficult to know what our moral duties are in a particular situation.
  • It is subjective. Non-consequentialist approaches to ethics are often based on subjective judgments about what is right and wrong. This can lead to disagreement and conflict.

Ultimately, the best approach to ethics is a matter of personal opinion. There is no one right answer, and each approach has its own strengths and weaknesses.

 

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