Question

Background This question asks you to take and defend a position in the debate between deontological and utilitarian moral systems, and in particular on the question of whether we should evaluate the morality of actions based on a standard of duty or one of welfare. Assignment In light of Kant's Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals and Mill's Utilitarianism, address the question of whether it would be better to base the ethical assessment of actions on a standard of 'duty' or on a standard of 'welfare Your response should have three paragraphs. In the first paragraph, explain the difference between an ethics of duty and an ethics of welfare, using Kant and Mill as cases in point. In the second paragraph, construct an argument in favor of the alternative you prefer. In the third paragraph, construct an argument against the alternative you reject.

Answer 1

Ans. Kant's view

According to Kant, the way we live our lives is based on respect of rationality, stability and neutralism of the person. he also thinks that the inborn moral value in human beings makes him a unique creation of the universe. every human is equal and should have the same rights. The humans have the ability to choose their reason for being happy by remaining honest to themselves.

Mill's view

Unlike Kant, mill thinks that there is a link between happiness and morality. According to him, it is common to say that bad things and beliefs are bad and good things and pleasures are good. Utilitarianism gives us a balance between the interests of others. it does not give us an unclear or abstract theories which helps the sociologists to find out what makes people happy very easily.

In favor of Kant's view

His work is extraordinary and has influenced us all. the motive behind any action gives it a moral value and this cannot be achieved by the outcome of the action. Kant's thinking is impartial and not irrational. His theory helps us to find our rights. The societies are risen up by the moral rights and values.

Argument against Mill's view

According to Mill, the humans are responsible for the things which they do to maximize their happiness. There can be things which are morally good for others for may not give happiness to us.Utilitarianism gives the opportunity to choose any one act for getting happiness by opposing moral values of our own. People can be wrong in choosing what is correct and what is incorrect.