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- 1). Examine the two main schools of ethical thought. Philosophy calls the theory of the importance of the common good Utilitarianism. It states that all acts should be done for the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Duty states that there is a common set of rules which must be followed without regard to consequences. The two don't agree. You must choose one or the other.
- 2). Examine Utilitarianism's strengths and weaknesses. Utilitarianism compels us to be empathetic to others and consider their welfare as important as our own. This group awareness influences people to avoid selfishness and greed and to be honest because dishonesty directly damages another human being as well as the group. However, Utilitarianism simply doesn't cover all situations and fails precisely where it should be strong. For example, a small boy has been captured by hostile people who say that they will torture and murder the boy if the first group doesn't surrender. Utilitarianism demands the sacrifice of the boy, but the empathy required by Utilitarianism makes it impossible to do so. The pain felt by the larger group over the death of the boy would damage members of the group, perhaps more than their own deaths.
- 3). Examine concept of duty and find its strengths and weaknesses. Duty demands adherence to a set of rules which it states are universally known. Duty's strength lies in its ability to propel people to do the right thing without regard to their own safety. The fireman who rushes into the burning building because it is his duty to save the people inside is admirable. However, duty lacks understanding and empathy. It is the application of the law without regard for the situation of the law-breaker. For example, a police officer finds a bag of money. Evidence inside the bag tells him that it was drug money for a drug deal far in the past. It has no value as evidence in a trial. The law is clear. The money must be turned in to the state. The police officer's child is dreadfully ill and needs an operation. The officer has no way of paying for the operation. Duty says the money must be turned in. Humanity says that it will do no harm to take the money and save the child.
- 4). Examine the teachings of Confucius and find which ethical theory they support. Confucianism stresses the importance of each human being and urges us to expand and grow as human beings. It also teaches us to have a proper respect for family members. Respect for the family can be expanded to include the community and the country. The teachings of Confucius concerning the importance of empathy and respect for others matches those of Utilitarianism.
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