The issue of intentions and character Flashcards
What criticism is often directed at Utilitarianism regarding intentions and character?
Critics argue that Utilitarianism focuses solely on the consequences of actions, neglecting the importance of intentions and character, which are commonly considered in moral evaluations.
How does Utilitarianism handle situations where good intentions lead to bad consequences?
Utilitarianism struggles to address situations where good intentions result in bad consequences, as it primarily judges actions based on their outcomes rather than the intentions behind them.
What is the consequence of Utilitarianism’s focus on actions rather than intentions?
The consequence is that actions with positive outcomes, such as saving a life, may be deemed morally good even if they were motivated by selfish or immoral intentions.
How does Utilitarianism address situations where bad actions lead to good consequences?
Utilitarianism may deem actions with bad intentions, such as stabbing someone, as morally acceptable if they result in unforeseen good consequences, such as the discovery of a brain tumor.
What traditional moral principle does Utilitarianism conflict with regarding intentions and character?
Utilitarianism conflicts with the traditional moral principle that intentions and character are crucial factors in determining the morality of actions, as it primarily focuses on the consequences of actions rather than the motivations behind them.
How does Mill respond to the criticism that Utilitarianism neglects the importance of a person’s character?
Mill responds
Mill argues that a person’s character does matter because it influences their future actions; condemning someone for bad motives can prevent them from causing harm in the future, while forgiving someone with a good character is justified as they are less likely to engage in harmful behavior.
According to Mill, why should the stabber be condemned for their motive?
Mill responds
Mill contends that condemning the stabber for their motive is justified because it helps deter them from committing similar harmful actions in the future, thus promoting overall happiness.
How does Mill justify forgiving the priest who saved Hitler’s life?
Mill responds
Mill justifies forgiving the priest based on his good character, as individuals with a good character are less likely to engage in harmful behavior in the future, thereby promoting happiness.
What does Mill argue regarding the relationship between character and happiness?
Mill responds
Mill asserts that having a good character contributes to an individual’s happiness, as it leads to actions that result in positive consequences and overall well-being.
In what way does Mill reconcile the importance of character with Utilitarianism’s focus on consequences?
Mill responds
Mill reconciles the importance of character with Utilitarianism by arguing that motives and character matter ethically because they influence actions and outcomes, thus aligning with consequentialist principles that prioritize promoting happiness and minimizing suffering.
