Utilitarian ethics

Definition

Utilitarian ethics is a moral theory that evaluates actions based on their consequences, specifically aiming to maximize overall happiness or utility. This approach considers the greatest good for the greatest number, emphasizing collective well-being over individual interests. It plays a crucial role in decision-making processes, especially in contexts where balancing competing interests is essential.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Utilitarian ethics originated from philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, who advocated for the principle of the greatest happiness.
2. This ethical framework can lead to complex dilemmas, such as situations where sacrificing one individual might save many others.
3. Utilitarianism is often applied in journalism when determining whether disclosing sensitive information serves a greater public interest.
4. Critics of utilitarian ethics argue that it can overlook individual rights and justice, focusing too heavily on aggregate outcomes.
5. In whistleblowing scenarios, utilitarian ethics can provide a justification for exposing wrongdoing if it ultimately leads to greater societal benefit.

Review Questions

• How does utilitarian ethics inform decision-making in cases of whistleblowing?
  • Utilitarian ethics helps assess whether a whistleblower's actions will result in greater overall good. If disclosing wrongdoing leads to preventing harm to many individuals or enhances public welfare, then the act may be justified under this ethical framework. It encourages consideration of the broader consequences of whistleblowing and the potential benefits it brings to society as a whole.
• What are some potential ethical dilemmas faced by journalists when applying utilitarian principles?
  • Journalists may confront dilemmas where revealing certain information could harm an individual but benefit the public significantly. For instance, exposing corporate misconduct might serve the greater good by preventing future harm, yet it could negatively impact an innocent employee. Balancing these competing interests requires careful consideration of both potential outcomes and ethical implications associated with those decisions.
• Evaluate how utilitarian ethics could both support and challenge journalistic integrity when reporting on sensitive topics.
  • Utilitarian ethics can support journalistic integrity by justifying the publication of stories that serve the public interest, such as investigative reports revealing corruption. However, it may also challenge integrity by prioritizing sensationalism or audience engagement over truthfulness if such reporting leads to increased overall happiness or interest. This creates a tension between ethical responsibility and the pursuit of utility, highlighting the need for journalists to critically evaluate their motivations and the potential societal impacts of their reporting.

Related terms

Consequentialism: A moral philosophy that judges the rightness or wrongness of actions solely based on their outcomes.

Deontology: An ethical theory that focuses on rules and duties rather than the consequences of actions, contrasting with utilitarianism.

Public Interest: The welfare or well-being of the general public, often considered in ethical discussions to determine what is beneficial for society as a whole.