Examples Of Act Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism This castaway-esque example brings forth many strong considerations from a utilitarian perspective. The first of many considerations would be that you as the individual ought to do what is deemed morally right for the greatest amount of people, maximizing utility and reducing potential suffering of others. In this specific case, I would have to not look in my own interest anymore and instead, take into account the interests of others (The estranged adult child and woman whom you made the promise to). I would also have to take happiness into consideration, seeing as happiness is central to the utilitarian beliefs. Whatever my ruling may be in this situation, I have to make the decision based on what promotes the capability of achieving happiness, or higher pleasures, for the maximum amount of individuals all without the infliction of unnecessary pain.
Act utilitarianism basically says that a persons act is morally right if it produces at least as much happiness as any other act that the person could be preforming at the same time. Somewhat similar to a opportunity cost. Rule utilitarianism, on the other hand, determines the validity of rules of conduct, like moral principles. I think that in the end, however, act and rule utilitarianism viewpoints will disagree with each other. In this case, act utilitarianism would suggest that I should donate the money or give it away to a larger group of people. Through act-utilitarianism, those acts would be morally right and would end up benefitting many more individuals than just giving it to one person, the estranged daughter. On the other hand, rule utilitarianism would suggest that it is deemed morally right to not break a promise and therefore, respect the woman’s final request and give the money to the estranged