satisfactory moral theory
James Rachels expresses his opinion on what a satisfactory moral theory ought to be like on this chapter. By citing examples, he indicates that a satisfactory theory would be realistic where human beings fit in the grand scheme of things. He also looks at the concepts and theories that should guide how we live as human beings such as reason , desert, motives, modesty, community, justice and fairness. His theory emphasizes more on people’s right to make a choice and the moral importance of treating people as they deserve to be treated. Based on his research, he outlined that the Multiple- Strategies Utilitarianism as the most plausible possibility which means that we should maximize the interests of all beings by living according to our best plan with modesty.
Human beings always carry themselves as the superior beings despite being last on the evolution line (Rachels, ). Sunsewuently, they developed theories of right and wrong in protection of their own intersts which places the other species at a much lower value. Rachels argues that just because human beings are the smartest and are the only ones who use language should not be used as a justification for us to be at the centre of the universe.
The fact that human beings have reason in our composition makes us rational beings. By reasoning we can choose to be very consisitent or inconsistent. An offense against reason is an offense against moralilty for instance racism, sexism, classism and nationalism. Rachels points out that Psychological Egoism presents a false nature for human beings as it is in our natural nature to care about the welfare of others, living together and needing each other’scompany and cooperation (Rachels,
Rachels beieves that we should treat people as they deserve, a principle he defines as desert. He bases this argument on the fact that human beings are rational beings who can make their own choices. Therefore, those who treat others well are entitled to good treatment while those treat others badly deserve the same. In any social system where right and wrong is acknowledged, it gives the people the power to actually determine their own fate (Rachels, 176). This concept is also emphasized in Kant’s principle of respect and Hobbes’ social contract which specifies that people deserve to be treated with a minimum level of respect and dignity but people who knowingly harm others deserve punishment as well. As much as this is harsh, desert is necessary for a sufficient moral theory(Ethics, 2015).
There are morally important motives that
The Multiple- Strategies Utilitarianism is the most plausible theory and is utilitarian, because the ultimate goal is to maximize the general welfare.
Moral community we should be concerned with everyone whose welfare might be affected by what we do.
Justice and Fairness
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