MICROLINC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER ENGINEERING

MORAL AND CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT-I

BY: Mekbib Estifanos ID NO: 15/125/23

Submitted to: Ins.

Submission Date: Dec, 30, 2023
Addis Ababa
 ABSTRACT

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory that emphasizes the outcomes of actions in

determining their morality. While it provides a clear and objective standard for ethical decision-
making, it has been subject to numerous objections over the years. This paper explored how a
utilitarian could justify cheating on an exam, examined two advantages of utilitarian ethics, and
discussed some common objections to utilitarianism. Ultimately, while utilitarianism has its
limitations, it remains a valuable framework for evaluating the morality of actions and promoting
the common good.

Key Words: Utilitarianism, Utilitarian ethics

INTRODUCTION
Utilitarianism is a moral theory that judges the morality of an action based on its ability to
promote the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of people. It is a consequentialist
theory that emphasizes the outcomes of actions, rather than the intentions behind them.
Utilitarianism has been a topic of debate among philosophers for centuries, with some arguing that
it provides a solid foundation for ethical decision-making, while others object to its basic
principles. In this paper, we will explore the justifications for cheating on an exam from a utilitarian
perspective, examine two advantages of utilitarian ethics, and discuss some common objections to
utilitarianism.

1. How could a utilitarian justify cheating on an exam?

A utilitarian could justify cheating on an exam by arguing that it would lead to the greatest
amount of happiness for the greatest number of people. For example, if a student cheats on an
exam to pass a course and graduate, they may be able to secure a job that they would not have been
able to otherwise. This job could provide financial stability and security for their family, which
would increase their happiness. Additionally, if the student's success in the job leads to the creation
of new products or services that benefit society, then the happiness of many people would be
increased.

However, this justification for cheating on an exam is problematic because it ignores the
negative consequences of the action. Cheating undermines the integrity of the educational system
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and devalues the achievements of those who have earned their grades honestly. It also perpetuates
a cycle of dishonesty and undermines the development of personal character traits such as honesty
and integrity. A utilitarian would need to weigh these negative consequences against the potential
benefits in order to determine whether cheating on an exam is morally justifiable.

2. What are two advantages of a utilitarian ethics?

Here are two key advantages associated with utilitarian ethics:

I. Universal Applicability: Utilitarianism offers a universal framework for ethical decision-

making. Unlike some ethical theories that are culturally or contextually bound, utilitarianism
provides a common standard that can be applied across diverse situations and societies. The
principle of maximizing overall happiness is inherently flexible and allows for the evaluation
of actions based on their consequences, making it applicable to a wide range of moral
dilemmas.
For example, consider a situation where a government is deciding on a public policy.
Utilitarianism would suggest evaluating the potential consequences of the policy on the overall
well-being of the population. This universal applicability makes utilitarian ethics an attractive
option in a world characterized by cultural diversity and varying moral intuitions.
II. Objective Decision-Making: Utilitarianism emphasizes a consequentialist approach, focusing
on the outcomes or consequences of actions rather than rigid rules or principles. This
objectivity in decision-making is a notable advantage, especially in situations where moral
rules may conflict or fail to provide clear guidance. Utilitarianism allows for a pragmatic
evaluation of the likely outcomes of different courses of action.
In professional contexts, such as business or public policy, where decisions often involve
complex trade-offs, utilitarian ethics can guide decision-makers in choosing actions that
maximize overall well-being. For instance, a company deciding on an environmental policy
might weigh the benefits and harms to both the environment and the stakeholders, aiming to
achieve the greatest overall positive impact.
3. What are the objections to utilitarianism?
One objection to utilitarianism is that it can be difficult to measure happiness and compare
it across individuals. Different people may have different preferences and values, which can make
it challenging to determine what actions will lead to the greatest amount of happiness for the

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greatest number of people. Additionally, some argue that utilitarianism can lead to a tyranny of
the majority, where the needs and interests of minority groups are ignored in favor of the majority.

Another objection to utilitarianism is that it can be difficult to apply in practice.

Utilitarianism requires individuals to predict the outcomes of their actions and weigh the potential
benefits against the potential harms. This can be challenging, as there are often many variables and
uncertainties involved in any given situation. Additionally, utilitarianism can be criticized for
ignoring the intentions behind actions, which some argue are just as important as the outcomes.

CONCLUSION
Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that emphasizes the greatest good for the
greatest number of people. It justifies cheating on an exam if it results in greater happiness or
pleasure for the individual and society. However, there are potential negative consequences of
cheating that must be considered. Utilitarianism provides a clear framework for decision-making
and promotes social welfare. However, objections to utilitarianism include its inability to account
for individual rights and the difficulty in measuring happiness. Overall, utilitarianism offers a
useful approach to ethical decision-making but must be considered in conjunction with other
ethical theories and principles.

REFERENCE
De Lazari-Radek, K. & Singer, P. (2017). Utilitarianism: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford:
Oxford University Press. Preface.
Ellis, A. (1992). Traditions of International Ethics: UTILITARIANISM AND INTERNATIONAL
ETHICS.
Levack, W.M. (2009). Ethics in goal planning for rehabilitation: a utilitarian perspective. Clinical
Rehabilitation, 23, 345 - 351.Aliyeva, K. S. (2016). About the different kinds of meanings
of a sentence. Theory and Practice in Language Studies, 6(9), 1762.
Quinton, A. (1973). Utilitarian Ethics. London and Basingstoke: The Macmillan Press Ltd.
https://www.utilitarianism.com/utilitarian-ethics.pdf
Stephen, N. (). Act and Rule Utilitarianism. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy and its Authors |
ISSN 2161-0002. https://iep.utm.edu/util-a-r/