What is the trolley problem in utilitarianism?

Can you explain the trolley problem in the context of utilitarianism?

Sure! The trolley problem is a thought experiment in ethics where you must choose between two harmful outcomes. In utilitarianism, the goal is to maximize overall happiness. So, if you can pull a lever to divert a runaway trolley onto a track where it will kill one person instead of five, a utilitarian would argue that you should pull the lever.

What if the one person is a doctor who could save many lives?

That's a great point! In utilitarianism, the value of lives can be weighed based on their potential contributions to society. If the one person is a doctor, some might argue that saving them could lead to greater overall happiness in the long run, complicating the decision.

Are there any criticisms of utilitarianism in this scenario?

Yes, there are several criticisms. One major critique is that utilitarianism can justify sacrificing individuals for the greater good, which some argue is morally wrong. Additionally, it can be difficult to predict the long-term consequences of our actions, making it challenging to apply utilitarian principles effectively.

How do other ethical theories view the trolley problem?

Other ethical theories, like deontology, focus on the morality of actions themselves rather than outcomes. A deontologist might argue that pulling the lever is wrong because it involves actively causing harm, regardless of the consequences.