PHL275H1 Lecture Notes - Categorical Imperative, Deontological Ethics, Trolley Problem
Document Summary
Utilitarianism cannot capture all we think about what makes an action right or wrong: there is not one single moral principle (utility) It is in stark conflict with the way people go about their lives. If you think utility is the only thing that counts, there is trouble. Kant has the same problem: he thinks everything comes from the principle of the categorical imperative. We don"t keep promises to ensure future happiness. We keep promises because we promised: promotes human welfare. Social contracts: cheaters of promises make special cases for themselves. So what does count ethically: apparently, not one thing but many (263b-264a) Prima facie duties: not a single principle alternative like simple fairness, or kant"s categorical imperative. What happens when your principles conflict: utilitarians always have one principle based on reason that they follow. Ross says . do the best you can. First look or on the face of it (evidence) on the face of it, it looks admissible.
