Kantian Theory Vs Utilitarianism

Maximizing the amount of happiness for the general population is the key to solving ethical problems within utilitarianism. Kantian theory follows the same principle but with greater emphasis on the respect for all things involved with ethical quandaries. Both have their critiques yet both ideas are conceived in an effort to understand and conceptualize some of the biggest controversies and questions that evolve around ethics. This paper will be an attempt to delineate the key components that fabricate each theory, first utilitarianism and then Kantian theory and through examples and practical reasoning after discussing both, I will provide my justification for which theory I would adopt for myself. Utilitarianism is a concept that helps
Kantian theory conceptualizes that we must act in such a way which treats humanity as we would treat ourselves and only by a means and not a mere means. In other words, humanity should adhere to the Golden Rule and only use beings with good intentions rather than personal gain or at the expense of others. For instance, if I ask someone to borrow money with the intent on paying that person back, I am using her as a means to utilize money I currently didn't have and I will provide the money back suggesting there is no loss for either of us. If I borrow the money but never meet up to pay the person back then I am using her as a mere means, suggesting that I have essentially taken her money for personal gain and leaving her with nothing in return. Consequently, Kantian theory focuses on the motives behind a persons action rather than the results of it and puts forward more emphasis on the respect for everyone on equal terms rather than than just that of the
What if a country declares war on the US in order to attain land for their growing population and we may choose not to fight back under the moral law of sustaining respect for all individuals. It is true that we must respect all individuals but that does not suggest we will allow for millions of lives to be lost. Going further, Kantian theory upholds the Categorical Imperative that states we should “act only on those principles that you would will to see followed by all humanity.” Under Kantian theory it would be justifiable to go to war in order to protect the greater population of the US. Both countries have a right to live, fight for resources, and protect their existence, which means both have a right to go to war. Thus “moral law” is falsely inferred through this criticism. The principle is to respect all individuals but with regards to respecting all individuals right to live. If going to war is necessary to preserve human life, then it must be the action