According to each of the following three theories, explain what makes an action morally good: Bentham/Mill’s utilitarianism, Kant’s deontological ethics, or Aristotle’s virtue ethics. For the theory of your choice, describe a scenario in which the theory could be applied in order to help you make a decision about what to do (or how you could advise a friend) if confronted with a moral dilemma.
Your paper should consist of 5 complete paragraphs. An outline and tips will be provided. If you use any sources, you should cite them using either MLA or APA style. However, it is not necessary to use sources outside of the textbook. If you do, it is best to consult with me to ensure that they are appropriate for the assignment.
Paragraph 1: Introduction – What will you discuss in this paper?
Paragraph 2: Explain your first theory (i.e., utilitarianism)
Paragraph 3: Explain your second theory (i.e., Kantian ethics)
Paragraph 4: Explain your third theory (i.e., virtue ethics)
Paragraph 5: State which theory you find most useful by providing an example of how it may be applied
Here are some sample sentences you can use in your own paper:
In this essay, I will explain three normative theories of ethics, utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, and virtue ethics, and discuss why (theory of choice) is most effective in justifying a moral decision.
Our module materials cover three moral theories: utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, and virtue ethics.
According to Kantian ethics, an action is morally acceptable if it could reasonably be a universal law of conduct.
Utilitarianism tells us to maximize “utility.” This means that we should aim to bring about the greatest amount of happiness, or the least amount of suffering, for the greatest number.
Kant’s means-ends principle says that we must always treat humans as valuable in themselves, In other words, we cannot use others as a means to an end that we desire.
Ultimately, I find that (utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, or virtue ethics) is most effective at explaining my considered moral judgments.
Define and explain each theory
Here are some ways to get your paragraphs started that you can use in your paper:
Utilitarianism is the view that… In other words….
Kant’s means-ends principle tells us… This implies that…
Virtue ethics says…This means that… This should not be confused with…
Discuss your chosen theory by explaining how it can be applied to make a moral judgment in a scenario of your choice
Of these three theories, I prefer… This is because…. An example to show this is…
A situation I found myself in was….
A friend asked my advice about…
One issue we confront as a society is….
Kant’s means-end principle best aligns with my ideas about moral responsibility because…
Utilitarianism is the most plausible theory because….
Virtue ethics has the most explanatory power because…