You are the captain of a submarine. An explosion has caused the sub to lose most

Question

You are the captain of a submarine. An explosion has caused the sub to lose most of its oxygen supply and has injured a crewman who is bleeding badly and is going to die from his wound no matter what happens. The remaining oxygen is not sufficient for the entire crew to make it to the surface. The only way to save the other crew members is for you to shoot dead the injured crewman now. Then there will be just enough oxygen for the rest of the crew to survive.

Is it morally acceptable for John to shoot the injured crewman?  Explain.

Explanation / Answer

It is morally acceptable to shoot the injured crewman based on the Utilitarian approach. The crewman is already injured and bleeding badly. There is less chance for him to survive even if I provide the oxygen. As the Captain of the ship, I am responsible for the safety of the entire crew. According to Utilitarianism, the most ethical choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number. Here shooting crewman to ensure oxygen for other members brings greatest good for the greatest number and hence it would be morally acceptable to shoot the injured crewman.

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