Argument Quote by Dale Jamieson
“What most forms of Consequentialism cannot do is require us to act in such a way as to make the world worse, yet many of the objections to Consequentialism purport to show that Consequentialism requires us to make the world a stinking, bloody mess. The ubiquity of these kinds of arguments shows you just how unseriously many of the critics take Consequentialism.”
About This Quote
Source Article: Ethics of Consequentialism, Dale Jamieson, 2015
Critics often exaggerate consequentialist claims, suggesting they endorse harmful outcomes, which misrepresents the theory's true moral constraints.
In simple terms: Critics misinterpret consequentialism as allowing harm.
Key Takeaway
Recognize nuanced arguments before dismissing a philosophy.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
argumentation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
debate
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy analysis
- public discourse
Key Concepts
consequentialism
moral theory
misrepresentation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess the fairness of a moral theory's critics?
- What safeguards prevent harmful outcomes in consequentialism?
A Different Perspective
Critics may overlook safeguards within consequentialist frameworks.
