Dilemma of double effect

Definition

The dilemma of double effect is a philosophical principle that addresses situations where an action has two effects: one intended and good, and the other unintended and potentially harmful. This concept helps in evaluating moral decisions, especially in scenarios involving global ethics and international relations, as it allows individuals to assess the ethical implications of actions that may lead to both positive and negative outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The dilemma of double effect is often invoked in discussions about military actions, humanitarian interventions, or medical ethics where collateral damage may occur.
2. Key criteria for applying this principle include the nature of the act, the intention behind it, the distinction between intended and unintended effects, and proportionality in outcomes.
3. This concept has significant implications in global ethics, as it challenges decision-makers to consider not only the outcomes of their actions but also their moral responsibilities.
4. In international relations, the dilemma of double effect can complicate negotiations and military strategies, especially when innocent lives are at stake.
5. The principle emphasizes that it is morally permissible to perform an action that causes harm if the harm is not intended and if it is a side effect of achieving a good outcome.

Review Questions

• How does the dilemma of double effect help us evaluate complex moral decisions in international relations?
  • The dilemma of double effect provides a framework for evaluating moral decisions by allowing decision-makers to distinguish between intended consequences and unintended harm. In international relations, this is crucial when actions such as military interventions are considered. By applying this principle, leaders can justify actions taken for a greater good while being mindful of potential collateral damage, leading to more ethically sound decisions.
• Discuss how the criteria of intention and proportionality relate to the application of the dilemma of double effect in military ethics.
  • Intention and proportionality are central to applying the dilemma of double effect within military ethics. The principle requires that any harm caused must be unintended; it should arise as a secondary effect of pursuing a legitimate objective. Proportionality refers to ensuring that the good achieved outweighs any potential harm inflicted. Together, these criteria help military leaders navigate ethical dilemmas by assessing whether their actions align with moral standards while considering both immediate effects and broader implications.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of the dilemma of double effect in humanitarian interventions during conflicts.
  • Evaluating the ethical implications of the dilemma of double effect in humanitarian interventions reveals complex challenges for decision-makers. While such interventions aim to protect vulnerable populations and prevent atrocities, they often risk causing unintended harm to innocent civilians. The dilemma forces stakeholders to weigh their moral responsibility against possible collateral damage, leading to difficult choices about when and how to intervene. Ultimately, navigating these ethical waters requires a careful consideration of intentions, expected outcomes, and a commitment to minimizing harm while striving for a just cause.

Related terms

Utilitarianism:

An ethical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility, often weighing the consequences of actions.

Deontology:

An ethical framework that focuses on the morality of actions themselves rather than their outcomes, emphasizing duty and adherence to rules.

Just War Theory:

A doctrine that outlines the ethical principles for engaging in war, emphasizing the need for just cause and proportionality in military actions.