China Debate Education Network Arguments by Consequence and Principle

Two Different Methods of Evaluating Actions Arguments by consequence – Does the action lead to the greatest utilitarian consequences? (Greatest good for the greatest number.) – Consistent with the philosophy of utilitarianism. Arguments by principle – Actions are evaluated by how they respond to principles of duties and rights. – Consistent with the philosophy of deontology.

Basis of Utilitarianism Started by philosopher Jeremy Bentham. Do our actions provide the greatest good for the greatest number of people (In Bentham’s words, the “greatest happiness.” Actions that produce greater good are preferred to those that do not.

Value Motion Supported by Consequences Primary Claim: Mohandas Gandhi was one of the world’s best leaders. – Gandhi taught the method of non-violence. – Gandhi’s use of non-violent action produced consequences in Ghana. Using Gandhi’s tactics, Ghana became the first African Country to break free of British rule. – Ghanaian independence from Britain was a positive consequence. Not only did it provide a non-violent means of freeing citizens of Ghana from British rule, it also provided a model for the advancement of civil rights in the United States.

Policy Motion Supported by Consequences Increasing funding and infrastructure for education will improve people’s lives by helping to alleviate poverty. – The proposal substantially provides added funding and infrastructure the current system. – Infrastructure and funding are causally related to access to secondary education. – Increasing access to secondary education will help relive poverty and will improve people’s lives.

Basis of Deontology One of the earliest deontologists was philosopher Immanuel Kant. This method is grounded in morals and ethics, especially rights and duties. A good action is one that conforms to certain principles involving rights and duties. A good action is in accord with important principles regardless of the consequences.

Value Motion Supported By Principle Mohandas Gandhi was one of the world’s greatest leaders. – Non-violence is one of the most important principles the world has ever known. – Mohandas Gandhi employed civil disobedience throughout his life. His method of civil disobedience supports the principle of non- violence.

Policy Motion Supported by Principle All governments have the duty to provide education for their citizens. – Access to education is a right of citizens and a duty of the government to provide. – The Government team’s proposal substantially changes the policies of the current system. – The Government team’s proposal fulfills the duty of government and the right of citizens.