Trolley problem

Definition

The trolley problem is a moral dilemma that involves a choice between two unfavorable outcomes, typically illustrated by a scenario where a person must decide whether to pull a lever to divert a runaway trolley onto a track where it will kill one person instead of five. This thought experiment highlights the complexities of ethical decision-making and the conflicts between utilitarianism and deontological ethics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The trolley problem was first introduced by philosopher Philippa Foot in 1967, later expanded by Judith Jarvis Thomson.
2. It presents a choice that starkly contrasts utilitarian ethics (saving the greater number) with deontological principles (the morality of actively causing harm).
3. Variations of the trolley problem explore different contexts, such as pushing a person onto the track to stop the trolley or the 'fat man' scenario.
4. The trolley problem has sparked extensive debate about moral intuition, rationality, and the role of emotions in ethical reasoning.
5. It serves as a foundational thought experiment in discussions about consequentialism and challenges our understanding of moral principles.

Review Questions

• How does the trolley problem illustrate the conflict between utilitarianism and deontological ethics?
  • The trolley problem showcases this conflict by presenting a scenario where one must choose between sacrificing one life to save five, which aligns with utilitarianism's focus on maximizing overall good. In contrast, deontological ethics argues that actively causing harm (by pulling the lever or pushing someone) is morally wrong, regardless of the outcome. This dilemma forces individuals to confront their ethical priorities and the implications of their decisions.
• In what ways does emotion and intuition play a role in people's responses to the trolley problem?
  • People often react to the trolley problem based on emotional responses and moral intuitions rather than purely logical reasoning. Emotional reactions can influence whether individuals feel comfortable with actively causing harm, like pulling a lever, versus passively allowing harm to occur. These intuitive responses highlight how moral judgments can be shaped more by feelings than by calculated outcomes, illustrating the complexity of human ethics.
• Critically evaluate how variations of the trolley problem impact our understanding of moral dilemmas and ethical frameworks.
  • Variations of the trolley problem, such as scenarios involving different numbers of people or methods of intervention, deepen our understanding of moral dilemmas by challenging our intuitions and ethical frameworks. These variations can expose biases in how we weigh lives against one another and reveal inconsistencies in our moral reasoning. By analyzing these scenarios, we can better grasp the limitations of both utilitarianism and deontological ethics, fostering more nuanced discussions about ethical decision-making in real-life situations.

Related terms

Utilitarianism:

An ethical theory that suggests that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility.

Deontology:

An ethical framework that focuses on the morality of actions themselves, rather than the consequences, emphasizing duties and rules.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a person faces conflicting moral choices, often requiring them to choose between two or more equally compelling options.