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 grocer 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 holds that actions should promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. In this scenario, the man stealing the food would result in the survival and well-being of his family, which is a higher value than the harm caused to the grocer. Therefore, in this case, stealing the food would be acceptable according to the Utilitarian Principle.

A Classic Ethical Dilemma Is the Hypothetical Case of a Man