Week 3 Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is Consequentialism?
An ethical theory where the morality of an action depends on its outcomes — the right action is the one that brings about the best consequences.
What is Utilitarianism?
A type of consequentialism that says the right action is the one that maximizes overall happiness and minimizes suffering.
What does “impartiality” mean in utilitarianism?
Everyone’s happiness counts equally — not just your own or your loved ones’.
What is the difference between intrinsic and instrumental value?
Intrinsic value: Valuable for its own sake (e.g. happiness).
Instrumental value: Valuable as a means to an end (e.g. money).
What is sentientism? (Peter Singer)
The view that only sentient beings (those who feel pain/pleasure) matter morally. Nature matters only if it affects sentient beings.
What is “shallow ecology”?
Caring for the environment only because it benefits humans or animals — focuses on instrumental value.
What is “deep ecology”?
The belief that nature has intrinsic value, even without humans or animals — it should be protected for its own sake.
Who are key thinkers in classical utilitarianism?
Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.
What is Act Utilitarianism?
An act is right if it produces the greatest happiness for the greatest number in that specific case.
What is Rule Utilitarianism?
An act is right if it follows rules that, if generally followed, lead to the greatest happiness.
What are common objections to utilitarianism?
Too demanding
Ignores justice and rights
Allows unfair outcomes
Hard to apply (can’t predict all consequences)
What is the “transplant case” objection?
Should we kill one healthy person to save five sick ones? Utilitarianism seems to say yes — this violates individual rights.
What is the “Utility Monster” argument? (Nozick)
If one being gets extreme pleasure from everything, utilitarianism may justify giving them all resources — unfair distribution.
What does “separateness of persons” mean? (Rawls)
We are individuals, not one collective mass — utilitarianism treats people as parts of a whole, which may justify sacrificing some for others.
What is Bernard Williams’ objection about integrity?
Utilitarianism can alienate us from our personal values and projects by demanding we act against our own moral identity.
How does utilitarianism apply to business ethics?
Shareholder theorists say profit-maximization increases utility.
Stakeholder theorists say all stakeholder welfare should be considered.
Critics argue utilitarianism may conflict with profit-making.
Can utilitarianism respect human rights?
Only if it leads to better consequences — this may allow rights to be overridden, which is seen as dangerous by critics.
What is the “Wilderness Experience Machine” problem?
If nature gives value only through experience, why not just simulate it? This questions the instrumental view of nature.
What is the difference between actualism and probabilism?
Actualism: Focus on the actual consequences of actions.
Probabilism: Focus on the likely consequences, based on current knowledge.
What’s the final takeaway about utilitarianism in business?
Even if not fully practical, thinking about consequences matters. Business leaders should try to have a positive impact, even if not perfect.
