Trolley problem

Definition

The trolley problem is a moral dilemma that presents a scenario where a person must choose between actively causing harm to save others or allowing greater harm to occur. This thought experiment raises important questions about ethics, personal responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. It connects deeply with philosophical discussions on utilitarianism and deontology, especially in contexts that involve decision-making in life-and-death situations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The trolley problem typically involves a runaway trolley headed towards five people tied to the tracks, where one must decide whether to pull a lever to divert the trolley onto another track, killing one person instead.
2. This thought experiment has been widely discussed in various mediums, including literature, philosophy, and video games, challenging players to confront ethical decisions.
3. Different variations of the trolley problem exist, such as scenarios involving personal connections to the individuals involved, which complicate moral decision-making.
4. The trolley problem highlights the tension between utilitarian approaches, which prioritize overall outcomes, and deontological views, which stress moral duties.
5. In gaming, the trolley problem is often represented in narrative choices that influence the game's outcome, encouraging players to reflect on their ethical values.

Review Questions

• How does the trolley problem illustrate the conflict between utilitarianism and deontology?
  • The trolley problem vividly illustrates the conflict between utilitarianism and deontology by presenting a choice that can either maximize overall good or adhere to strict moral rules. Utilitarianism would suggest pulling the lever to minimize harm by sacrificing one person for five. In contrast, deontological ethics would argue against pulling the lever because actively causing harm violates moral duties, emphasizing that some actions are inherently wrong regardless of their consequences.
• Discuss how video games utilize the trolley problem to enhance player engagement with ethical dilemmas.
  • Video games often incorporate variations of the trolley problem to create engaging narratives that challenge players' moral beliefs. By forcing players to make difficult choices that impact characters' lives or the game's outcome, developers encourage deep reflection on ethics. This interactive approach allows players to experience the consequences of their decisions firsthand, enhancing their understanding of complex moral issues while immersing them in a compelling story.
• Evaluate how the trolley problem can influence our understanding of moral agency within gaming narratives.
  • The trolley problem plays a significant role in shaping our understanding of moral agency within gaming narratives by emphasizing the responsibility players have for their choices. By presenting scenarios where every decision leads to ethical consequences, games can illustrate how players navigate complex moral landscapes and confront their values. This engagement not only promotes critical thinking about right and wrong but also fosters empathy as players consider the implications of their actions on virtual lives, mirroring real-world ethical dilemmas.

Related terms

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

Deontology: An ethical theory that emphasizes duties and rules over consequences, asserting that certain actions are morally obligatory regardless of their outcomes.

Moral Agency: The capacity of individuals to make moral judgments and be held accountable for their actions based on ethical principles.