The Moral Dilemma of the Trolley Problem: A Critical Analysis

The trolley problem, as proposed by Philippa Foot, has long been a focal point in discussions of moral permissibility. This thought experiment presents a stark scenario where an individual must decide whether to pull a lever, diverting a trolley to a track with one person, or do nothing and allow the trolley to continue on its current path, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. The question is often framed as a test of ethical principles, but diving deeper reveals a more complex and nuanced issue.

The Call to Action and Moral Permissibility

Some argue that the trolley problem is flawed, suggesting that certain responses to it are so extreme or naive that they do not reflect practical or ethical decision-making. However, when faced with a clear-cut moral dilemma, the right course of action is often more straightforward than one might initially believe. In the case of the trolley problem, pulling the lever to save five individuals at the cost of one is not only morally permissibly but a moral duty.

The primary ethical framework at play here is utilitarianism, which advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness and well-being. By pulling the lever, one acts to prevent greater harm, thus promoting the greater good. This action, while causing regret or contempt, ultimately results in the preservation of more lives.

Emotional Labour and Ethical Decision-Making

Insisting that the right action may entail personal discomfort or contempt from others is a fundamental aspect of ethical decision-making. The lever-puller acknowledges a moral imperative, even if it means enduring condemnation from others. This is not a sign of moral failings but a demonstration of a higher ethical standard. The alternative—choosing inaction out of fear of emotional discomfort—can be even more morally reprehensible, as it leads to the unnecessary loss of lives.

It is important to recognize that societal norms and ethical guidelines can be rigorously enforced through strong emotional responses. Consequently, the act of pulling the lever can, paradoxically, serve as a form of emotional labour—a recognition and reinforcement of one’s moral duties.

The False Nature of the Moral Problem

The trolley problem has been criticized for presenting a false moral dilemma by examining the moral implications of killing one person. In reality, the problem itself is inherently flawed as it confuses prescriptive with descriptive ethics. Societal norms and practices already recognize and accept the concept of justifiable killing in certain circumstances. For example, war and self-defense are often considered morally permissible, even if they result in the death of individuals.

Morality is generally defined as what is acceptable within a given society. Therefore, the trade-off of saving five lives by sacrificing one can be seen as an acceptable moral action, provided it aligns with societal values and ethical standards.

The trolley problem, with its emphasis on individual sacrifice for the greater good, serves to highlight the often hidden but critical role of personal and societal ethical judgments. The incommensurability argument, which suggests that individual lives cannot be compared, may not be as strong as it initially appears. While the intrinsic value of each life is undoubtedly unique, the utilitarian approach focuses on the expected value and outcomes of different actions.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the trolley problem reveals deeper insights into the nature of moral permissibility and ethical decision-making. The simple answer to pulling the lever is not merely a logical conclusion but also a reflection of a society's values and the moral duty to uphold the greater good. While it is a challenging and uncomfortable action, it is a necessary one in situations where the preservation of multiple lives is at stake.

Understanding and engaging with such moral dilemmas are crucial for fostering a society where ethical principles are not only acknowledged but also upheld. This reflection not only helps in overcoming personal discomfort but also strengthens the moral fabric of society.