Lecture Notes: Introduction to Consequentialism by Julia Driver
Overview of Consequentialism
- Consequentialism: A normative ethical theory focused on the consequences of actions as the basis for moral evaluation.
- Key Idea: The moral quality of an action is determined solely by its consequences.
Components of Consequentialist Theories
- Two Parts:
- Account of what is good
- Approach to achieving the good
- Deontic Properties: Attributes actions as right or wrong based on their consequences.
Example: Hedonistic Act Utilitarianism
- Definition: A form of consequentialism where the right action maximizes pleasure.
- Theory of the Good: Hedonism (pleasure is the one intrinsic good).
- Approach: Maximizing pleasure or producing as much of it as possible.
Case Study:
- Scenario: Doctor Martha can save one person (Steve) with a full dose, or five people with divided doses.
- Utilitarian View: Martha should save the five people, as it results in better overall consequences.
Comparison with Other Moral Theories
- Contrasting Theories: Some theories argue that consequences are not the sole determinant of moral quality.
- Example: Keeping a promise is considered morally right even if breaking it might have better consequences.
Criticisms of Consequentialism
- Overly Demanding: Maximal consequentialism can be too demanding, making ordinary actions seem wrong if they don't produce the most good.
Practical Example:
- Buying a bagel could be seen as wrong if the money could be used for a greater good, like donating to charity.
Alternative: Satisficing Consequentialism
- Definition: The right action is the one that produces enough good, not necessarily the most.
- Critique: This approach seems counterintuitive, as maximizing good is generally seen as rationally favorable.
Additional Notes
- The point of morality in consequentialism is to make the world a better place.
- There is ongoing debate about the balance between rational action and moral obligation in these theories.
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