GE-ETHICS

University of San Carlos

Teacher: Villaganas, Vic Albaran Date: 11/12/23

Subject: Group 3 Ethics Time: T Th 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM

DEONTOLOGY CASE STUDY

By: Neri Kathleen Cuevas
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Suppose you’re a software engineer and learn that a nuclear missile is about to

launch that might start a war. You can hack the network and cancel the launch, but it’s

against your professional code of ethics to break into any software system without

permission. And, it’s a form of lying and cheating. Deontology advises not to violate this

rule. However, in letting the missile launch, thousands of people will die.

1. Under the Utilitarian perspective, will you launch the missile or not? Explain your
answer.

A utilitarian decision would entail weighing the consequences of each action

and selecting the one that maximizes overall happiness or minimizes harm. In this
scenario, preventing the launch of a nuclear missile through hacking would most likely
be considered ethically justifiable. Allowing the missile to launch could result in the loss
of thousands of lives and the start of a war with devastating humanitarian
consequences.

The software engineer could potentially save many lives and prevent
widespread suffering by hacking into the network and preventing the launch. While
hacking may violate certain rules or ethical principles, the utilitarian viewpoint prioritizes
the greater good and the reduction of harm. It entails a consequentialist approach in
which the end result, saving lives, takes precedence over the means by which it is
achieved.
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2. Under the perspective of Deontology, why will you not violate any of the rules?
Explain your answer.

From a deontological standpoint, ethical decision-making is guided by

adherence to moral principles or rules, regardless of the consequences. In this case, the
software engineer may choose not to violate the rule of not breaking into any software
system without permission, even if the consequences are severe.

The importance of acting in accordance with moral duties and principles is

emphasized by deontology. In this case, the engineer could argue that hacking into the
system violates the principles of honesty, integrity, and respect for the rules that govern
digital systems. Even if the consequences of not hacking are tragic, a deontologist
would argue that the act of violating rules or principles is inherently wrong, and
individuals must uphold their ethical obligations regardless of the consequences.