The trolley problem

Definition

The trolley problem is a thought experiment in ethics and moral psychology that poses a dilemma involving a runaway trolley and the choice to divert it onto a track where it would kill one person instead of five. This scenario raises questions about utilitarianism, the value of human life, and the moral implications of making difficult decisions that affect others. It highlights the tension between consequentialist and deontological ethical perspectives, especially in contexts where religious morals play a significant role in guiding behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The trolley problem was first introduced by philosopher Philippa Foot in 1967 and later expanded by Judith Jarvis Thomson.
2. There are multiple variations of the trolley problem, such as the 'fat man' scenario, which further complicates the ethical decision-making process.
3. The dilemma illustrates the conflict between saving more lives versus taking an active role in causing harm, challenging both rational and emotional responses.
4. In religious contexts, interpretations of the trolley problem can vary significantly based on differing beliefs about morality, sin, and divine command.
5. Studies on the trolley problem have shown that people's decisions can be influenced by emotional factors and their personal moral frameworks, leading to diverse responses.

Review Questions

• How does the trolley problem illustrate the conflict between utilitarianism and deontology?
  • The trolley problem highlights the tension between utilitarianism and deontology by presenting a scenario where one must choose between maximizing overall good (saving five lives) versus adhering to moral duties (not actively causing harm to an individual). Utilitarians would argue for pulling the lever to save more people, while deontologists may refuse to intervene because it involves taking an innocent life. This ethical conflict is central to understanding how different moral frameworks approach complex decision-making.
• Discuss how religious beliefs can shape interpretations of the trolley problem.
  • Religious beliefs can significantly influence how individuals interpret the trolley problem. For instance, a person guided by a religious doctrine that emphasizes the sanctity of life may argue against diverting the trolley to kill one individual, viewing it as an immoral act regardless of the outcomes. Alternatively, some religious perspectives may prioritize saving as many lives as possible, supporting the utilitarian approach. These differing viewpoints showcase how morality is often intertwined with personal faith and cultural context.
• Evaluate how variations of the trolley problem can reveal deeper insights into moral reasoning and decision-making processes.
  • Variations of the trolley problem, such as scenarios involving different numbers of people or alternative methods of intervention, allow for a richer analysis of moral reasoning. By altering specific details, these variations challenge individuals to reflect on their values and principles in a more nuanced way. Such discussions can reveal patterns in moral decision-making, including how emotions and cognitive biases influence choices. Ultimately, this evaluation enhances our understanding of human morality's complexity and its interplay with psychological factors.

Related terms

Utilitarianism: An ethical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility, often evaluated by its outcomes.

Deontology: An ethical framework that emphasizes the importance of following rules or duties when making moral decisions, regardless of the consequences.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a person faces conflicting moral choices, making it difficult to determine the right course of action.