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| Deontology |
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| Consequentialism |
Introduction
The way we think about an issue or dilemma in systematic, logical, sensible way is what we call reasoning. Webster dictionary defines reasoning as the “process of thinking about something in a logical way in order to form a conclusion or judgment” (Reasoning, n.d.). Wesleyan University defines Ethical reasoning as “the ability to identify, assess, and develop ethical arguments from a variety of ethical positions” (para. 1). Reasoning is the process by which we take to make an ethical or unethical decision. Let’s take a look at two style of reasoning; Consequentialism and deontology. According LaFollette, (2007), Consequentialism suggest that we ought to choose the available action with the best overall consequences, while deontology propose that we “should act in ways circumscribed by moral rules or rights, and that these rules or rights are at least partly independent of consequences” (p. 354). These two ethical theories help as understand and apply moral decisions.
The way we think about an issue or dilemma in systematic, logical, sensible way is what we call reasoning. Webster dictionary defines reasoning as the “process of thinking about something in a logical way in order to form a conclusion or judgment” (Reasoning, n.d.). Wesleyan University defines Ethical reasoning as “the ability to identify, assess, and develop ethical arguments from a variety of ethical positions” (para. 1). Reasoning is the process by which we take to make an ethical or unethical decision. Let’s take a look at two style of reasoning; Consequentialism and deontology. According LaFollette, (2007), Consequentialism suggest that we ought to choose the available action with the best overall consequences, while deontology propose that we “should act in ways circumscribed by moral rules or rights, and that these rules or rights are at least partly independent of consequences” (p. 354). These two ethical theories help as understand and apply moral decisions.
Consequentialism
The
term Consequentialism was first used by Elisabeth Anscombe in 1958 to cover an array
of theories according to which the moral value of an act or other moral entity
is derived solely from its consequences (Consequentialism, 2007). This theory is
a type of normative ethical theory, which means it provide criteria’s and
methods for making moral decisions. Consequentialists
guides us to act in ways that produce the best consequences (LaFollette, 2007). For example, if you are
considering two schools to attend, you are consideration the pros and cons of
both options and make your decision based on the best option that will bring
success and happiness. At the same way this theory takes parts of hedonistic
act of Utilitarianism which is the right action that maximizes pleasure
(Driver, 2015). In other words, is to judge the actions by their consequences
and select the one with the highest likely to succeed. However, there are
negatives to consequentialism; it ignores the rights of others and it cannot
properly predict every situation. To illustrate, imaging if there is a
millionaire who is in need of a heart transplant. He offers to to build and
fund a hospital that will be saved thousands of life each year. However, if he
gets the kidney the person at the top of the waiting list will died. Consequentialism
might argue that this person life and happiness is not proportional to the
potential of saving of thousands of lives. This can be argued that it goes against
ethics and human rights. There is much to consider when making a decision based
on consequentialism belief. Consequentialism tells us to look at each situations
and their consequences and select the one with the best results; this can be
damaging when faced with complex decisions.
Deontology
Deontology
by definition is “the theory or study of moral obligation” (Deontology, n.d.).
It is the “right” and “wrong” of moral belief. According to LaFollette (2007) deontologist
believes that it is important not only that we do the right thing, but that we
do it for the right reasons. Deontology comes from the Greek word deon which means duty (Shakil, n.d.). This theory
opposed to any form of utilitarianism or pragmatism (Deontology, 2015).
Deontologist make their decisions on moral belief regardless of the
consequences that may result from it. LaFollete (2007) differentiate between the theories by stating that “Deontologists contend there are strict
moral limits on what we can do to others. Consequentialists do not” (p. 390).
It’s importance to consider that Deontology reflects our moral belief and the “do’s”
and “don’t” we have learned from childhood.
These sets of rules are impeded in our societies and are easy to follow,
hence why deontology is popular. The negative about the approach, is that it only follows what is morally without truly considering the consequences of the actions even if the consequences greater greater. Take for example a car that is approaching a light that is
about to turn red, would you run the red light and break a rule? Consequentialism would tell us that if there is someone behind you and the odds of them hitting you is greater, then run the red light.
In contrast Deontology, would suggest to stop and hopefully not get hit.
Are
you more Deontology or Consequentialism or mixture of both?
Do
you follow the rules and stick to morals no matter the consequences? Or do you consider
the consequences and make your decision based on the best chances of success.
Take for example the Train Scenario; imagine if there is a train speeding and
in one side of the rail road tracks there is 5 people and on other side there
is one person. Would you push the level and have the train run over one person
instead of five? Now imagine there is man on top of a bridge and there are 5
people on the rail road track, by pushing the man you can save the five but you
murder the one person. This a complex ethical dilemma, Consequentialism would suggest
that we save the five and sacrifice one. However, Deontology would look at the
moral viewpoint and it would be immoral to have control over someone’s life and
sacrifice them to save others. I believe a mixture of the two theories is necessary,
we must consider the ethical information’s and the consequences to come up with
the most logical decision.
Reference
Consequentialism.
(2007). In J. Pike, Political philosophy A-Z. Edinburg, United Kingdom:
Edinburgh University Press. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.libproxy.db.erau.edu/login?url=http://search.credoreference.com/content/entry/edinburghppaz/consequentialism/0
Deontology.
(n.d.). Retrieved April 3, 2016, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deontology
Deontology.
(2015). In The Hutchinson unabridged encyclopedia with atlas and weather
guide. Abington, United Kingdom: Helicon. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.libproxy.db.erau.edu/login?url=http://search.credoreference.com/content/entry/heliconhe/deontology/0
Driver, J. (2015). PHILOSOPHY - Ethics:
Consequentialism [HD]. Retrieved April 03, 2016, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hACdhD_kes8
LaFollette,
H. (2007). The practice of ethics. Malden, Mass.: Blackwell Pub.
Ethical Reasoning: A Key Capability. (2016).
Retrieved April 03, 2016, from http://www.wesleyan.edu/ethics/reason.html
Reasoning.
(n.d.). Retrieved April 3, 2016, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reasoning
Shakil, A. (n.d.). Deontology - Kantian Duty-Based
Ethics - Seven Pillars Institute. Retrieved April 03, 2016, from
http://sevenpillarsinstitute.org/morality-101/kantian-duty-based-deontological-ethics
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