The Prompt
- Implement each of the ethical theories below to determine what one would be obligated to do in response to the dilemma described above. Specifically, the question is, "Who does the dedicated citizen vote for?" Would they vote for the ideal candidate even though they are almost certain to lose? Would they vote for the least bad major candidate to ensure that the worst candidate is not elected? Is there some reason they would vote for the worst candidate? Lastly, could they be justified in refusing to vote at all?
Implement each ethical theory separately, authoring a reply of at least one paragraph for each.
Utilitarianism
Kantian/Deontological Ethics
Aristotelian Virtue Ethics
- Then articulate the view that you identify with. In other words, what do you believe the dedicated citizen ought to do in this situation? Your answer does not necessarily have to agree or disagree with the conclusions reached in your prior paragraphs. You are welcome to articulate a novel or unique perspective. If you agree with one of the the previously discusses ethical perspectives, explain why you do and what you find objectionable about the alternative views.