Utilitarianism vs. Kantianism Essay - 1363 Words

Utilitarianism vs. Kantianism Ethics can be defined as the conscious reflection on our moral beliefs with the aim of improving, extending or refining those beliefs in some way. (Dodds, Lecture 2) Kantian moral theory and Utilitarianism are two theories that attempt to answer the ethical nature of human beings. This paper will attempt to explain how and why Kantian moral theory and Utilitarianism differ as well as discuss why I believe Kants theory provides a more plausible account of ethics. Immanuel Kants deonotological ethical theory assesses if actions are moral based on the persons will or intention of acting. Kants theory can be categorized as a deonotological because actions are not assessed to be morally†¦show more content†¦The maxim has to be consistent and able to be applied to every situation, for every person. The other main point of Kantian moral theories are the differences between imperfect and perfect duties. Perfect duties are those duties that one must always perform in a particular situation, whereas imperfect duties are those that one must perform only when the situation arises. Utilitarianism is another theory in which its main objective is to explain the nature of ethics and morality. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory which is based upon utility, or doing that which produces the greatest happiness. According to a utilitarian the morality of act is found just if the consequence produces the greatest overall utility for everyone. However, if the greatest possible utility is not produced, the action is then morally wrong. This view says that a person should act as to produce the greatest overall happiness and pleasure for everyone who may be directly or indirectly affected by the action. Therefore, a utilitarian would require that for every action the corresponding consequences for every action should be thoroughly weighed and alternatives proposed before deciding whether or not to perform such an action. Kantian moral theory and Utilitarianism are similar in the respect that they both attempt to explain how one can goShow MoreRelatedEuthanasia: Kantianism vs Utilitarianism1599 Words   |  7 Pageson John Stuart Mill s Utilitarianism ethical theory, and Immanuel Kant s Categorical Imperative ethical theory. According to Utilitarianism, euthanasia can be morally justified, whereas according to Kantianism, euthanasia is not morally justifiable; but I will argue that neither position provides an adequate resolution to the issue, due to the significant flaws that are inherent in the reasoning that led to their particular positions. According to Utilitarianism, ethics is primarily anRead MoreThe Moral Aspects Of Utilitarianism1619 Words   |  7 PagesArthur Owen Williams greatly influenced philosophical ethics through several studies on the moral aspects of Utilitarianism. His complex thinking and theories, along with his unique approach, gave him a great amount of recognition towards other theorists in his field. He expressed the majority of his beliefs through his writings in which he stressed his critiques of Utilitarianism and Kantianism and emphasized the importance of moral rational. His study of both external and internal reasoning helpedRead MoreThe Moral Principles Which Control An Individual s Behaviour1820 Words   |  8 Pagesspecific scenario, seeing how both perspectives differ and deciding which one is better in the given scenario. Utilitarianism is the theory in normative ethics that believes the best action is the one which provides the most happiness. 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