The Consequences Of Utilitarianism

Unlike the previous theories, which either focus on the individual or a large group, utilitarianism focuses its decision making on a universal scale. Moreover, utilitarianism only has one decision criteria, consequences, like the preceding theories which also focused on principles. Weber defines this ethical theory as thinking, “to see the greatest good for the great number” (Weber 2015). Adding to that, it does not simply mean that it is ok for large amount of people to benefit while a smaller number is harmed. A utilitarian considers the amount of good or harm that is being done to others, so situations cannot simply be justified so quickly. The scale or type of “good” is as important as the number affected (Weber 2015). This being said, it is strived to achieve the greatest

With utilitarianism, even if a situation seems completely one sided, the best universal solution can potentially go against that. Being the owner of the plant with a utilitarian mentality has several factors of consideration to examine in regards to the consequences of the plant closing. First off, the book states that the German competitors are willing to buy the plant at a very attractive price that’ll ease the stress obtained from the economic downturn. While this decision may seem entirely simple for the owner, we are thinking on a universal scale, not an individual’s. In addition to the plant being a main employer for this small Wisconsin town, the owner is well-known and heavily established within the town’s roots. Selling the plant can potentially harm his family life since they are so well embedded in the town already, and merely packing up and leaving would leave a bad mark on the townspeople. Speaking of the townspeople,