Ethics (Ethical Reasoning) by Manoj K Jha

Model Answer

Question #1. What are ethical dilemmas? Utilitarianism is considered to be one of the ways in which ethical dilemmas can be solved. Discuss.

Approach                                     

1.     Describe ethical dilemma (50 words)         
2.     What is the purpose of utilitarianism in solving dilemmas? (60 words)
3.     Compare how utilitarianism can solve ethical dilemmas in a better way to solve the purpose. (40 words)

Hints:

An ethical dilemma (ethical paradox or moral dilemma) is a problem in the decision-making process between two possible options, neither of which is absolutely acceptable from an ethical perspective. Although we face many ethical and moral problems in our lives, most of them come with relatively straightforward solutions. On the other hand, ethical dilemmas are extremely complicated challenges that cannot be easily solved.

Moreover, ethical dilemmas are situations in which there is a difficult choice to be made between two or more options, neither of which resolves the situation in a manner that is consistent with accepted ethical guidelines. When faced with an ethical dilemma, a person is faced with having to select an option that doesn’t align with an established code of ethics or societal norms, such as codes of law and religious teachings, or with their internal moral perceptions of right and wrong.  

Utilitarianism and ethical dilemma

Utilitarianism is a form of consequentialism because it rests on the idea that it is the consequences or results of actions, laws, policies, etc. that determine whether they are good or bad, right or wrong. Under Utilitarianism whatever is being evaluated, we ought to choose the one that will produce the best overall results. According to this principle, when there is an ethical dilemma, we should choose the option that “maximizes utility,” i.e. that action or policy that produces the largest amount of good.

It (Utilitarianism) offers a relatively straightforward method for deciding the morally right course of action for any particular situation we may find ourselves in. To discover what we ought to do in any situation, we first identify the various courses of action that we could perform. Second, we determine all of the foreseeable benefits and harms that would result from each course of action for everyone affected by the action. And third, we choose the course of action that provides the greatest benefits after the costs have been taken into account.

Utilitarianism helps to prioritize choices to solve ethical dilemmas which are based on the outcome of the decision. The principle of utilitarianism invites us to consider the immediate and the less immediate consequences of our actions. Given its insistence on summing the benefits and harms of all people, utilitarianism asks us to look beyond self-interest to consider impartially the interests of all persons affected by our actions.

Hence, ethical dilemmas can also be solved by complying with virtue ethics and deontology but there is no single & definitive answer to what the virtues are, they are time-changing and if we comply with deontology lack of concern for consequences can sometimes be disastrous. Hence, Utilitarianism can solve those issues and can be a better way to solve an ethical dilemma. In an era today that some have characterized as the ‘age of self-interest’, utilitarianism is a powerful reminder that morality calls us to look beyond the self to the good of all.

Question #2. Many of the contemporary challenges faced by humanity require ethical solutions. Critically analyse.

Approach

1.     Describe the issue faced by humanity to solve the challenges. (50 words)
2.     Explain how to utilise the ethical solutions for Contemporary challenges? (60 words)
3.     Discuss the core ideas to overcome the issues using Values and Principles. (40 words)

Hints

Contemporary challenges are persistent in nature and transferable to future generations. They emerge from either long-term ignorance or the lack of a holistic approach of solving it. However, the Challenges faced by humanity can be resolved using the ability to analyse the situation, decision making and ‘Adoption in Action’.

Moreover, the dilemma which one faces to solve the contemporary challenges like Overpopulation, Consumerism, communal conflicts, and increasing cases of violence remains confined to focus on the cause and outcomes based solutions. But the core idea lies in the implementation based solutions including value orientation and by keeping ethical principles in mind. The scope of improvement that one should understand is at societal or community level with focus on skill building and using Technology coherently.

The Contemporary challenges for example climate change is an issue which has been passed through several stages of discussions, political involvement, policy formulation and scientific research for alternatives. But, we are still unable to find a way out of the issue and growing even after 50 years since the world started building commitments against climate change.  To solve this, we need an approach involving sensitisation of society and realisation of responsibility by every individual towards their contribution. Policy frameworks should also involve the principles like building Attitude for conservation of resources, making society aware of their rights and making youth responsible for their actions.  However, without a proper framework it is also redundant to an extent. So, a coordinated way is to merge ethical solutions in a mould of service delivery, mode of exchange of information and reaching vulnerable sections too.

Hence, ethical solutions required for contemporary challenges are not just about using principles and values but by modestly utilise the modern technology and skills to get sustainable solutions.  The way out of it can be found in society/personal ethics.