What is the purpose of Robert Nozick's thought experiment about the person in the well who vaporizes someone with a ray gun?
A) To demonstrate that moral intuitions are unreliable in scenarios that are too unrealistic.
B) To demonstrate that all intermediate moral principles have exceptions.
C) To test the principle that it is always wrong to use force against an innocent person.
D) To test the principle that it is permissible to harm someone in self-defense when you have no alternative.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nozick's thought experiment is designed to test the principle that it is always wrong to use force against an innocent person, by presenting a scenario where using force (via a ray gun) against an innocent person (who is unknowingly threatening one's life by potentially causing the well to collapse) might be considered by some as morally permissible due to the extreme circumstances.

What Is the Purpose of Robert Nozick's Thought Experiment About