Question

Why does the trolley problem pose an ethical predicament?

1) You have to make a choice between two scenarios where choosing one leads to loss of life in the other.
2) There are so many potential outcomes that it becomes difficult to choose one that is most ethical.
3) The moral responsibility is split between you and the person controlling the trolley.
4) You as the actor don't have sufficient control over the circumstance.

Answer 1

The trolley problem poses an ethical predicament due to the choice between loss of life, difficulty in determining the most ethical outcome, split moral responsibility, and lack of control.

Step-by-step explanation:

The trolley problem poses an ethical predicament for several reasons:

1. Choice between loss of life: In the trolley problem, you are faced with a choice between two scenarios where choosing one leads to the loss of life in the other. This creates a moral dilemma as you have to decide whose life to prioritize or sacrifice.
2. Difficulty in determining the most ethical outcome: With so many potential outcomes and consequences, it becomes challenging to determine the most ethical choice. There may be conflicting principles or values at play, making it difficult to make a clear decision.
3. Split moral responsibility: The trolley problem also splits the moral responsibility between you, as the actor, and the person controlling the trolley. This adds complexity to the ethical predicament as the consequences of your decision depend on the actions of both parties.
4. Lack of control: Lastly, the trolley problem highlights the lack of control you have over the circumstance. You may not have sufficient control over the situation or the ability to prevent harm, further complicating the ethical decision-making process.