Act utilitarianism

Definition

Act utilitarianism is a moral framework that evaluates the ethicality of actions based on their consequences, specifically aiming to maximize overall happiness or utility. Unlike rule utilitarianism, which focuses on adherence to rules that generally promote the greatest good, act utilitarianism considers each individual action's impact and chooses the one that results in the highest net positive outcome. This approach is particularly relevant in biotechnology ethics, where decisions can significantly affect human health and well-being.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Act utilitarianism evaluates each action based on its specific consequences rather than following a preset rule or guideline.
2. In biotechnology, this approach may lead to justifying controversial practices if they result in greater overall benefits, like increased medical advancements.
3. Critics argue that act utilitarianism can lead to morally questionable outcomes by focusing solely on consequences without regard for rights or justice.
4. The theory emphasizes the importance of weighing both positive and negative effects of an action to determine its utility.
5. Situations in biotechnology, such as clinical trials or genetic modifications, often require careful consideration of potential benefits against risks using act utilitarian principles.

Review Questions

• How does act utilitarianism differ from rule utilitarianism in its approach to ethical decision-making?
  • Act utilitarianism differs from rule utilitarianism primarily in its focus on individual actions rather than established rules. While rule utilitarianism advocates for following guidelines that generally promote the greatest good for the greatest number, act utilitarianism assesses each specific action's consequences. This means that an action considered wrong under a rule may be deemed acceptable if it leads to a better outcome in a particular situation.
• Discuss the implications of act utilitarianism for ethical decision-making in biotechnology, especially concerning patient consent.
  • In biotechnology, act utilitarianism implies that the decision to conduct certain procedures or experiments may be justified if they lead to greater overall benefits, even if they raise ethical concerns about patient consent. For instance, if a clinical trial could save many lives but requires participants to take significant risks, an act utilitarian perspective might prioritize the potential collective gain over individual rights. This raises questions about how far ethical boundaries can be stretched in the name of achieving higher utility.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of using act utilitarianism as a framework for making decisions in biotechnological advancements.
  • Using act utilitarianism in biotechnological advancements offers strengths such as flexibility and responsiveness to unique situations, allowing for tailored solutions based on specific outcomes. However, its weaknesses include the potential justification of harmful practices if they are believed to maximize overall happiness. Additionally, it may undermine principles like justice and individual rights by prioritizing aggregate utility over personal well-being. Thus, while act utilitarianism provides valuable insights into decision-making processes, relying solely on it can lead to ethical dilemmas that challenge foundational moral values.

Related terms

Consequentialism:

A philosophical theory that judges the morality of actions solely by their outcomes, often associated with utilitarian principles.

Hedonism: The ethical theory that pleasure or happiness is the highest good and proper aim of human life, often influencing utilitarian thought.

Bioethics:

The study of ethical issues arising from advances in biology and medicine, where frameworks like act utilitarianism can help navigate complex moral dilemmas.