Solving the Lifeboat Dilemma

Categories: Moral

In the case presented, I believe there is no right thing to do but I am morally compelled to act upon the situation that confronts me. I choose to use my strength to throw someone overboard to save four lives, including my own. In asserting that there is no right thing to do, it is because in choosing either of the options presented, human life is sacrificed. It is a classic case of “damned if I do, damned if I don’t”.

Whatever choice I make, I will end up doing the wrong thing. By choosing to use my strength to throw someone overboard and kill him, I am violating his right to life.

If I do nothing, I would be responsible for the deaths of five people. Although done without intention, throwing that one person overboard would be the only solution, all things considered, for upholding the greater good. In so doing, I am condemning myself to guilt and remorse as decisions that terminate lives are the most unbearable ones.

Essay author
Dr.Hellen.PhD
checked Verified writer

Proficient in: Moral

star star star star 4.7 (34)

“ She was very quick, it was a brief assignment, but she was done in a matter of hours when she had plenty of time. ”

avatar avatar avatar
+84 relevant experts are online
Hire Dr.Hellen.PhD

From a strictly utilitarian point of view, I would be choosing the option that would account for “greater happiness for the greatest number of people,” happiness qualified in this case as survival (Greenspan 119).

Clearly, my choice is the lesser of two evils. In this case, although there is a moral dilemma presented, such a dilemma could be resolved because one obligation overrides the other in terms of the number of lives that could be saved. This is not similar to the phenomenon in Sophie’s Choice wherein Sophie is presented with two symmetrical obligations.

Get to Know The Price Estimate For Your Paper
Topic
Number of pages
Email Invalid email

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

"You must agree to out terms of services and privacy policy"
Write my paper

You won’t be charged yet!

In her case, she had to choose between her two daughters or condemn both to death.

In my case, I am not compelled with emotional attachments to any of those present in the lifeboat that would make my conflict incapable of deliberation. These people are strangers to me and so, the weight of the obligation can be measured in terms of how many lives I could save which in the greater scheme of things, purport to the more moral decision. Clearly, this decision would be criticized by many. Proponents of the doctrine of the double effect would view my decision as morally wrong and unjustifiable.

While the double effect reasoning may exculpate those who take action that has negative side-effects, when that action involves something deliberately intended in order to carry out a solution (in my case, using my power to throw someone overboard), it becomes wrong. Even if the cause (in order to save five people) is good, the fact that I did something harmful to bring about the cause would render the entire decision immoral (McConnell 412). Utilitarian opponents would also reject my notion of choosing the lesser of two evils.

Radical moralists would say that human lives are incommensurate, and sacrificing one in lieu of a greater number does not make it moral (Hill 215). Others would accuse me of being an ethical egoist for choosing personal survival above all else. Works Cited Greenspan, Patricia S. "Moral Dilemmas and Guilt. " Philosophical Studies 43 (1983): 117-125. Hill, Thomas E. , Jr. “Moral Purity and the Lesser Evil. ” The Monist 66 (1983): 213-232. McConnell, Terrance. “Moral Dilemmas and Requiring the Impossible. ” Philosophical Studies 29 (1976): 409-413.

author
Written by Sophia Nguyen
Updated: Jan 18, 2024
Keep in mind: this is only a sample!
Updated: Jan 18, 2024
Essay's Scoring Result:
Expert's Assessment
The essay effectively navigates a moral dilemma, presenting a coherent argument on the lesser of two evils. The writer articulates the internal conflict and justifies their choice through utilitarian reasoning. The structure is clear, progressing logically, and referencing relevant philosophical perspectives. However, it could benefit from a more nuanced exploration of opposing views. The incorporation of scholarly sources, particularly Greenspan, Hill, and McConnell, enhances credibility. Overall, the essay demonstrates a thoughtful engagement with ethical considerations, though deeper analysis and broader perspectives could enhance its depth.
How can you enhance this essay?
The presented scenario poses an ethical quandary, forcing me to grapple with the unsettling reality that there may be no morally pristine course of action. Faced with the choice of sacrificing one life to save four, including my own, I find myself in a moral conundrum where both options lead to a transgression. This dilemma echoes the sentiment of being "damned if I do, damned if I don't." Opting to exert my strength and throw someone overboard constitutes a violation of the basic right to life. Yet, inaction on my part would result in the unintended but culpable demise of
photo_author
This essay's assessment was conducted by:
Nik Johnson
Cite this page

Solving the Lifeboat Dilemma. (2016, Nov 13). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/solving-the-lifeboat-dilemma-essay

Solving the Lifeboat Dilemma essay
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment