Ethics Essay

The utilitarian theory of consequentialism defines morality in terms of the maximization of net expectable utility for all parties affected by a decision or action. It looks as the group as a whole and states that an action is morally right if the action is more favorable than unfavorable to everyone. Although forms of utilitarianism have been put forward and debated since ancient times, the most modern theory is associated with the British philosopher John Stuart Mill (1806- 1873) and his mentor Jeremy Bentham (1748- 1832). According to Mill, the most basic principle of utilitarianism is that “actions are right to the degree that they tend to promote the greatest good for the greatest number.” Bentham has two significant features of his utilitarianism theory–act-utilitarianism and rule-utilitarianism. Act utilitarianism states that when we are faced with a choice, we must first consider the likely consequences of our possible actions and, from those consequences, choose to do what we believe will generate the most pleasure. On the other hand, according to rule-utilitarianism, a behavioral code (or 'rule') is morally acceptable if the consequences of adhering to that rule are more favorable than unfavorable to everyone.

Kant’s theory on Ethics of duty means that for an act to be moral it must be performed out of duty. If you are concerned for the end product of your actions it is not a moral act. Only when your action is done in such a way that your only concern is the action itself is it a moral act. For example if a child runs into the street in front of a car and you grab that child you have performed a moral act. You are not worried about the outcome; your only concern is the act of grabbing the child. If, however, it is your child then your only concern is that your child is safe regardless the consequences of your actions. This then would not be considered a moral act. Kant states that your duty to act comes from your good will. He describes the...