A classic ethical dilemma is the hypothetical case of a man stealing from a grocery store in order to feed his starving family. If you used the Utilitarian Principle to evaluate this situation, you might argue that stealing the food is
A) acceptable, because the grocer suffers the least harm.
B) acceptable, because the higher value is the survival of the family.
C) wrong, because the man would not want the grocery to steal from him.
D) wrong, because if everyone were to do this, the concept of personal property is defeated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Utilitarian Principle focuses on maximizing the greatest good for the greatest number of people. In this case, the man stealing food is acting in the interest of his family's survival, which is a higher good than the potential harm caused to the grocery store. Thus, choosing option B would be the most ethical decision according to the Utilitarian Principle.

A Classic Ethical Dilemma Is the Hypothetical Case of a Man