Introduction to Kant’s Deontological Ethics and the Trolley Problem

Immanuel Kant is a central figure in modern philosophy, known for his deontological ethical theory, which emphasizes duty, moral rules, and the intrinsic value of human beings. This article explores how Kant would approach the Trolley Problem, a thought experiment in ethics where one must choose between pulling a lever to divert a trolley onto a track where it will kill one person instead of five. Kant's perspective on this issue is rooted in his deontological framework, which emphasizes duty, the categorical imperative, and respect for persons.

Kant’s Key Views on the Trolley Problem

Moral Law and Duty: Kant believed that moral actions are determined by adherence to duty and moral laws rather than by their consequences. In the Trolley Problem, to Kant, actively choosing to kill one individual to save others is morally impermissible. Pulling the lever constitutes an active choice to cause harm, which would violate the moral law.

Categorical Imperative: Kant's categorical imperative states that one should act only according to that maxim which one can will to become a universal law. If one were to justify pulling the lever to save five lives, it could lead to a universal principle that permits sacrificing an individual for the greater good. This undermines the inherent value of each person, contrary to Kant’s principles.

Respect for Persons: Kant argued that individuals must be treated as ends in themselves, not merely as means to an end. By pulling the lever and causing the trolley to move, one would be treating the individual on the track as a means to achieve the greater good of saving five others. This approach would contradict Kant’s moral philosophy.

Moral Absolutism: Kant’s ethics are often seen as absolutist. He would likely argue that certain actions, like causing killing, are categorically wrong regardless of the situation or potential outcomes. Thus, he would reject the idea that it is permissible to sacrifice one life to save others based on utilitarian calculations.

Conclusion: Kant’s Stance on the Trolley Problem

In summary, Kant would likely reject the proposed solution to the Trolley Problem that involves sacrificing one life to save five. His framework prioritizes adherence to moral laws over the consequences of actions, leading to a strict stance against actively causing harm, regardless of the potential benefits. Kant's deontological perspective hinges on the preservation of individual dignity and the intrinsic value of human beings, which are not compromised by the utility of outcomes.

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