1
Karl receives a call from the local police, who are concerned that his son may be growing and distributing an illegal (but
not dangerous) drug. Karl
... [Show More] knows this suspicion to be true. If he admits it to the police, his son will be arrested, and their
family’s name will be tarnished. If he lies, the police will assume the tip they got was false and go away.
Most people are split on this issue. How might it be evaluated by a utilitarian?
Karl’s lying is morally right because he has an obligation to protect his son, even if his son’s actions cause harm to others.
Karl’s lying is morally wrong because his obligation to the state is more important than his son staying out of trouble,
even though it would bring about no benefit for the state.
Karl’s lying is morally right because keeping his son out of trouble and his family’s reputation clear will bring about more
happiness than if his son is arrested.
Karl’s lying is morally wrong because it is sinful to lie, even when the consequences are less than desirable.
CONCEPT
Applying Utilitarianism
2
Which of the following people would likely be satisfied with Kantian deontology?
Henrietta is looking for an ethical system that weighs the odds of certain consequences.
Hank is looking for an ethical system that will put him most ahead.
Houghton is looking for an ethical system that is relative.
Helen is looking for an ethical framework that respects the freedom of others.
CONCEPT
Support for Kantian Deontology
3
I come home and my apartment building is on fire. There is a family of five living in the apartment next to mine and only
my mother in my apartment. I can only evacuate one apartment.
What is a problem with applying utilitarianism to this scenario?
Utilitarianism says I should evacuate the apartment that has five occupants, even though my mother is more important
to me.
Utilitarianism says I cannot determine which apartment to evacuate because my mother's happiness is equal to the
happiness of the five strangers.
Utilitarianism says I have to choose what to do based on who is responsible for starting the fire.
Utilitarianism says I should evacuate my apartment because that will make me the happiest. [Show Less]