In one state, West County and East County share a border. The state capital is in East County. Many residents of West County (almost half of all adults in the county) commute to East County for work. East County has high levels of air pollution, and residents there must get their car exhaust systems tested every two years. Although West County has less air pollution than East, the pollution levels in West are rising. The state Department of Environmental Regulation orders that residents of West County must now get their car exhaust systems tested every two years as well. What moral standard best explains this decision by the Department of Environmental Regulation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decision is best explained by the moral standard of utility, which focuses on actions that maximize the overall happiness or well-being of the greatest number of people. By requiring car exhaust tests in West County, the Department aims to prevent the air pollution levels from rising further, thus protecting the health and well-being of the residents in both counties.

In One State, West County and East County Share a Border