Foundation of Ethcis Question from \"Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals\" by

Question

Foundation of Ethcis

Question from "Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals" by Kant; ISBN: 13:9781107401068, EDITION-2

1. Briefly explain the argument against autonomy, then state whether or not you agree with it: whichever side you take, give reasons why. (approx.. 100 words)

2. Here is a situation you are to analyze and state what it is you should do, and why:

You are standing beside some railroad tracks when you see a runaway trolley speeding past you: clearly the brakes have failed. Ahead of the trolley are five people who will be run over and killed if you do nothing. But you are standing near a track control panel: if you turn a switch, it will send the trolley from the main track onto a side track which splits off from the main one. However, there is one person on the side track who will be killed if you do this. What should you do? (approx. 100 wds.)

Explanation / Answer

1.) The argument against Autonomy.

Ethically, it has to be One view. You should be always ethicallly correct.

There has been instances when a person in most troubled setting does something which is ethically wrong. But the situation compels or forces a person to take that situation. The answer to this is that all should be conciously correct & don't do any act which is Ethically wrong. There is adifference between Intention & the Act itself. The intention / among set of choices (say two options), the one stronger should be taken care of.

2.)  Ahead of the trolley are five people who will be run over and killed if you do nothing. But you are standing near a track control panel: if you turn a switch, it will send the trolley from the main track onto a side track which splits off from the main one. However, there is one person on the side track who will be killed if you do this.

Well, it is saving lives - either five / one. As a human being, with human factor would like to save maximum lives (here five), rather (one). Very tough situation. Will have to turn a switch to save five lifes. Will pray that the one life under trouble see the problem & run away from the track & save his life himself. Thanks...

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