Utilitarianism is helpful making moral decisions

Question 1

utilitarianism is UNhelpful making moral decisions

Answer 1

Although the idea of utilitarianism is straightforward, the application of the theory is anything but straightforward . There are so many factors and variables to consider. It is also difficult to know how far to take the consequences of an action. Sometimes a simple decision may have repercussions that affect future generations.

Question 2

utilitarianism is UNhelpful making moral decisions

Answer 2

Similar to the above, utilitarianism requires that we are able to make a reasonable prediction as to the outcome of an action. However, it is not always obvious what the effects of telling the truth vs telling a lie are in any given circumstance.
We cannot predict the future.

Question 3

utilitarianism is UNhelpful making moral decisions

Answer 3

While everyone is considered, the greatest good for the greatest number inevitably leads to poorer treatment of minority groups and may disregard rights to serve the greater good. Bentham himself famously refers to rights as ‘nonsense on stilts’.

Question 4

utilitarianism is UNhelpful making moral decisions

Answer 4

It is difficult to measure pain and pleasure

Question 5

utilitarianism is UNhelpful making moral decisions

Answer 5

Utilitarianism also disregards moral agency. In his thought experiment ‘Jim and the Indians’, Bernard Williams gives a situation where a utilitarian can save ten lives by killing one person themselves. He argues that even if this were the right thing to do, we would find it difficult. This is because we are moral agents who have to live with ourselves after the act.