Utilitarianism and Its Applications, Essay Example

Maxim: Whenever I choose between two options, regardless of the consequences, I always choose the option that gives me the most pleasure.

Universal Law: Whenever anyone has a choice between two options, regardless of the consequences, they will always choose the option which gives them the most pleasure.

The World: If everyone adhered to this maxim, it would result in a chaotic and unpredictable world. People would make decisions based entirely on their pleasure without considering the consequences or the effects these decisions may have on others. Thus, some people would inevitably make decisions that would cause harm to themselves and others simply out of a desire for pleasure.

Is There a Contradiction? Yes, this maxim directly contradicts the moral injunction to do no harm and to consider the impact of one’s decisions on others.

State Whether the Maxim Is Moral: No, this maxim is not moral.

Sentence: “One has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws” (King).

Maxim: Whenever I see an unjust law, I have a moral responsibility to disobey it.

Universal Law: Whenever anyone sees an unjust law, they have a moral responsibility to disobey it.

The World: If everyone in the world adhered to this maxim, people would have a greater moral obligation to stand up against injustices and oppressive laws contradicting a universal sense of morality.

Is There a Contradiction? No, this maxim does not contradict any moral obligations.

State Whether the Maxim Is Moral: Yes, this maxim is moral.

A utilitarian would likely disagree with the conclusion of this test case, as they view morality from a utilitarian perspective. Utilitarians believe that the morally correct action is the one that provides the most benefit to the greatest number of people (Smart 25). This could mean, for example, disobeying an unjust law if that law prevents more people from obtaining a benefit. A utilitarian would also focus on the consequences of any action and view moral decisions through that lens, which is at odds with the deontological perspective that emphasizes the action itself.

Works Cited

King Martin, L. Jr. “Letter from a Birmingham Jail [King, Jr.]” African Studies Center. 3, https://www.africa.upenn.edu/Articles_Gen/Letter_Birmingham.html

Smart, J. J. C. “Utilitarianism and its applications.” New directions in Ethics. Routledge, 2020. 24-41.