Doctrine of Double Effect

Question 1

• This doctrine says that if doing something morally good has a morally bad side-effect, it’s ethically OK to do it providing the bad side-effect wasn’t intended.
• This is true even if you foresaw that the bad effect would probably happen.

Answer 1

Doctrine of Double Effect

Question 2

Cases where the doctrine is often referred to in defense:

Answer 2

• Euthanasia
• War and civilian deaths
• Abortions

Question 3

Criticisms of the doctrine of double effect

Answer 3

• We are responsible for all the anticipated consequences of our actions. If we can foresee the two effects of our action we have to take moral responsibility for both effects - we can’t get out of trouble by deciding to intend only the effect that suits us.
• Intention is irrelevant