In this paper I will analyze Social Contract Theory, then I will apply this theory to a specific ethical issue, in order to determine which position should be taken, i.e., which position is most justified. The main question at stake in the ethical issue that I be exploring is “Should a driverless car be programmed to crash and sacrifice its passengers, rather than hit a larger number of pedestrians, if it only has those two choices?” That question, as asked, generates two main positions: That “Driverless cars should be programmed to crash and sacrifice its passengers, rather than hit a larger number of pedestrians”, and that “Driverless cars should not be programmed to crash and sacrifice its passengers, rather than hit a larger number of pedestrians”. Afterward, I will explore challenges to my argument, and reflect on my experiences completing this paper.
2. A Moral Theory
In this section I will use critical thinking to analyze and evaluate Social Contract Theory. In moral philosophy, the main question at stake is “What should we do in order to achieve the morally right action?” In the Social Contract Theory the morally right action is set by rules of self governing behavior, on the basis of individuals being selfish and rational. With the goal to achieve peace, prosperity, and safety. According to the theory I chose, the …show more content…
Which would've had more cases of selfish acts in a state of nature because people wouldn't know one another. Without rules, individuals can't be trusted because it isn't guaranteed that they won't hurt you or steal your property. The premise, “Society needs rules that rational people will abide by to secure a world of peace, prosperity, and safety.” is true, society needs rules that rational people will abide by. Without those rules, people won't necessarily behave. Without a set of rules, people will act in their own self
2. A Moral Theory
In this section I will use critical thinking to analyze and evaluate Social Contract Theory. In moral philosophy, the main question at stake is “What should we do in order to achieve the morally right action?” In the Social Contract Theory the morally right action is set by rules of self governing behavior, on the basis of individuals being selfish and rational. With the goal to achieve peace, prosperity, and safety. According to the theory I chose, the …show more content…
Which would've had more cases of selfish acts in a state of nature because people wouldn't know one another. Without rules, individuals can't be trusted because it isn't guaranteed that they won't hurt you or steal your property. The premise, “Society needs rules that rational people will abide by to secure a world of peace, prosperity, and safety.” is true, society needs rules that rational people will abide by. Without those rules, people won't necessarily behave. Without a set of rules, people will act in their own self