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This document delves into fundamental ethical concepts and theories, examining the works of prominent philosophers like socrates, kant, and mill. It explores the nature of good, the principles of universalizability and utilitarianism, and the complexities of consent and autonomy in ethical decision-making. Through thought experiments and real-world examples, the document encourages critical thinking and analysis of ethical dilemmas.
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− Mill says that you can lie to (and you should) prevent harm and the for the greater good (more happiness) The consequences of the lie (your friend's survival) outweigh the moral weight of the lie itself. − Utilitarianism allows for a flexible response based on the specific context, while Kantian ethics insists on upholding moral duties like truth-telling, even in dire situations. Which theory gives the correct verdict depends on whether you prioritize consequences or moral principles.
− Kant's principle of universalizability asks whether the maxim of an action can be applied universally without contradiction. − An example of an action that doesn’t universalize is making a false promise to repay a loan. The maxim behind this action might be "It is acceptable to make false promises when I need something." − As a result, the action of making false promises cannot be universalized because it leads to a contradiction in conception—the very act of promising would lose its meaning if everyone lied. − This failure to universalize means the action is morally impermissible in Kant’s view, as it undermines the social practice it relies on.
− Judith Thomson’s violinist thought experiment is designed to challenge the claim that abortion is morally impermissible in all cases. In the scenario, you are kidnapped and connected to a famous violinist who needs your body to survive. − Although disconnecting would result in the violinist’s death, Thomson argues that you are not morally obligated to stay connected, even if the violinist has a right to life. − This parallels pregnancy by suggesting that a woman's right to bodily autonomy might justify disconnecting from the fetus, even if it results in death. The right to life does not necessarily give the right to use someone else’s body to survive. − Thomson uses this to argue that abortion can be morally permissible, particularly in cases where the pregnancy is unintentional or unwanted.