Criticisms Against Ethical Theories - 8474 Words

Criticisms leveled against Ethical Theories 1. Criticisms leveled against Consequentialism. Consequentialism is based on the consequences of actions. It is sometimes called a teleological theory, from the Greek word telos, meaning goal. According to consequentialism, actions are right or wrong depending on whether their consequences further the goal. The goal (or, the good) can be something like the happiness of all people or the spreading of peace and safety. Anything which contributes to that goal is right and anything which does not is wrong. Actions are thought to have no moral value in themselves (no rightness or wrongness), but only get moral value from whether or not they lead to the goal. John Stuart Mill was a famous†¦show more content†¦The argument from distaste is often expressed as a suggestion that utilitarianism doesnt provide enough support for individuals rights. But what is a right, and what is its justification? If the justification of a right depends on its tendency to promote happiness and prevent suffering, then it is entirely redundant since this is the sole purpose of utility. And if rights arent justified in these terms, how are they justified - what on earth are they actually good for? Of what use are they? It is generally found that the proponent of ethical rights has very unclear thinking as to what rights are and why they (should) exist - and it is therefore of unclear importance that utilitarianism does not support them. Doesnt utilitarianism imply that, if we found a drug which had the sole effect of producing happiness, we ought to mass produce and consume it? And, since happiness is just an emotion which can be chemically induced, isnt it a bit silly to make it the highest order objective? It is quite strange that many people will accept the pursuit of happiness as one of lifes fundamental entitlements, yet should suddenly develop ascetic inclinations as soon as the quarry appears obtainable. It seems they dont have a problem with someone trying to achieve happiness, rather they are only concerned when that someone has a reasonable prospect of success in their attempts. Perhaps their fixation with unhappiness would be satisfied by personally abstaining fromShow MoreRelatedEvaluating Utilitarianism - What are the main features of Utilitarianism as an ethical theory? Examine and consider criticisms that have been made against Utilitarianism.2151 Words   |  9 Pagesthe main features of Utilitarianism as an ethical theory? (10 marks) Examine and consider criticisms that have been made against Utilitarianism. (10 marks) Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that pivots around the belief that morality should be judged by consequence and the way in which an action can be deemed moral or immoral, depends upon the number to which it brings the greatest happiness. A decision can be defined as ethically correct under the theory of Utilitarianism if the moral choice providesRead MoreNormative Ethical Relativism716 Words   |  3 PagesThe objective of this essay is to provide reasons as to why normative ethical relativism provides an unattractive view on the nature of morality and why it should be rejected. In order to see this negative relationship, this essay will identify three features of this theory that makes it problematic. The first problematic feature of normative ethical relativism is based on the claim that moral principles cannot be validated on a universal level. This means that different cultures should be freeRead MoreCultural Relativism Is An Important Ethical Theory And James Rachels Argument1091 Words   |  5 Pages Cultural Relativism is an important ethical theory and James Rachels’ argument is significant to provide evidence to prove and disprove the idea. It is important to call attention to and understand differences between cultures. Tolerance is also an valid concept when arguing Cultural Relativism. Regardless of the outcome or viewpoint of the argument it is significant in the fact that it raises awareness for tolerance and differences between cultures and that no culture is more superior or more correctRead MoreThe Ethical Theory Of Utilitarianism912 Words   |  4 PagesUtilitarianism is just one of many ethical theories used and studied in the world that we live in toda y. 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