Discussion Question #6:
Compare Deontology with Utilitarianism. Which is a better theory and why?
1-2 pages, double space if typing.
Due on Friday 2/21/03

Utilitarianism:

Arguments in favor-
1 - this theory is based on the relatively uncontroversial assumption that happiness and pleasure are intrinsically good.
2 - It is a "simple and elegant" theory. The idea is to maximize value, whatever is valuable-produce as much of it as possible.
3 - Objective, takes a third person point of view.
4 - There is intuitive support of this theory in cases which involve large numbers.

Objections -
1 - Too permissive..."the end justifies the means" Condones intuitively immoral acts. Can have very bad side effects.

Example of "joe college" who is in the hospital for a tonsillectomy. In another ward are five patients waiting for organ transplants. Without the transplants they will die within a week. If Joe has an "accident" in surgery and dies, his organs can save all five of the others. Should Dr. (organ) Mill harvest Joe's organs? If all of the people in the equation are equal, then five for one is an acceptable trade.

Some of the bad side effects if Dr. Mill harvested joe's organs would be that people wouldn't seek treatment for medical problems. This could lead to increased disease and death and fear of the medical profession.