The Trolley Problem The Trolley Problem

Trolley Problem A: “Bystander”

Trolley Problem 1: “Bystander” Here, we are told, it is at least permissible to not pull the lever. Perhaps, we are told, it is also obligatory to not pull the lever.

Trolley Problem B: “Transplant”

5 5 1 1 Trolley Problem 2: “Transplant” = Unlike the “Bystander” problem, we are told that here it is impermissible to perform the operations. On a utilitarian calculation, the cases are formally identical. 5 5 1 = 1

Trolley Problem C: “Drug”

Trolley Problem 3: “Drug” Given you haven’t promised the medicine to the one, it seems, it is at least permissible that you give it to the five. It may even be required that you give the medicine to the five.

Trolley Problem D: “Fat Man”

5 1 5 1 Trolley Problem 4: “Fat Man” = It seems immediately wrong to push the Fat Man. But, again, the numbers seem to line up. Further, in all four cases, you are an agent, you have to make a choice, and perform an action based on this choice. So why are our instincts so different in the cases? 5 1 = 5 1

Analysis What happens if you choose not to act in each of the cases? In A, B, and D, it seems at least permissible that the result of your actions should align with who would have died had you not acted (or not been present to act). A B C D

Analysis (cont’d) Killing vs. Letting Die Complication: In C, if you choose not to act, everyone dies. Problem: Consider A', in which the trolley is heading at the five, and you have the option to change tracks to point it at the one. A B ' C D