Additions to Lecture II Strengths & Weaknesses of Deontology & Consequentialism

Strengths of Consequentialism Practical, Results-oriented View Relatively clear how to make ethical judgments simply reflect on consequences

Weaknesses of Consequentialism How can we know all the consequences of an action? How can we compare utility from person to person? Do we include all generations?  All species? Will utilitarianism lead us to ‘repugnant conclusions’? In theory, any kind of action could be justified if the consequences of the situation work out just right.

Strengths of Deontology Sets clear moral boundaries Some things just can’t be done Possibility of multiple principles allows for flexibility Only on pluralist versions of deontology

Weaknesses of Deontology If we don’t rely on consequences for moral justification, then can we find a convincing case for identifying basic moral principles? Deontology’s basic approach is not as simple as consequentialism’s Deontology can seem overly ‘legalistic’ i.e., too focused on rules too inflexible