consequentialism

Question 1

difference between act and rule consequentialism

Answer 1

for AC, the rightness of an act is determined by its consequences. so the same act can be permissible in one case and impermissible in the another, depending on the consequences in each case.

for RC, the rightness of an act is determined by whether that act is in accordance with the rules. the rules are meant to bring about good, so if you’re following the rule you’re always doing the right act. even if negative consequences follow

Question 2

consequentialism + welfarism =

Answer 2

utilitarianism.

Question 3

describe a case in which act and rule consequentialists would disagree about what the right act is

Answer 3

being caught in a tornado and you either speed (breaking the rule) down the road to save you and your family’s life, or drive the speed limit and everyone dies

Question 4

what do consequentialists focus on in order to determine if an act is right?

Answer 4

consequences of acts.

Question 5

principle of utility

Answer 5

Bentham- “the greatest good for the greatest number” so the right act is the one that brings about the most utility- I.e. a presence of pleasure and an absence of displeasure

Question 6

maximizing vs satisficing consequentialism

Answer 6

MC- we are required to act in a way that would bring about the best consequences

SC- as long as the act we choose have consequences that are good enough, then we have acted correctly

Question 7

which theory of welfare could capture the other 2 theories of welfare?

Answer 7

objectionalism