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.
E) wrong, because society could not survive if everyone did this.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The utilitarian principle is based on maximizing overall happiness and minimizing overall suffering. In this case, the higher value is the survival of the family, and therefore stealing the food would bring more happiness than harm. So, option B is the best choice.

A Classic Ethical Dilemma Is the Hypothetical Case of a Man