One of the most pressing moral issues currently facing society is climate change. Climate change is a global phenomenon that has been caused by human activity and its effects are already being felt around the world. It has led to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and a disruption of natural ecosystems that threatens both wildlife and humans alike. The ethical implications of this problem are far reaching and cannot be ignored.
One ethical theory that can be applied to climate change is utilitarianism, which holds that an action should always produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. In terms of climate change, it follows that those who have contributed most to its causes (e.g., developed countries with high carbon dioxide emissions) should take greater responsibility for lessening its effects on poorer countries whose populations are more vulnerable to its impacts (e.g., drought or flooding). On this basis, it is argued that wealthier nations should pay reparations in order to help developing countries cope with the effects of climate change through financial assistance or technological advances such as renewable energy sources.
Cite a contemporary moral issue in our society. Apply one ethical theory learned in class to judge this moral issue. Use the theory’s claims in each paragraph to back up and support your arguments. You must have a minimum of five paragraphs applying the ethical doctrine
A second key element of utilitarianism states that we must consider not only immediate needs but also long-term interests when making decisions about our actions. This means taking into account future generations who will be affected by our current choices in order to maximize their potential benefit from them as well. In relation to climate change, this principle requires us to make sacrifices now in order to protect future generations from suffering worse consequences later on down the line; for example, investing heavily in renewable energy infrastructure or reducing emissions through regulations.
Finally, according to utilitarianism we must also ensure fairness when evaluating any proposed solution; if one group benefits disproportionately at another’s expense then justice demands changes be made until everyone involved sees some measure of benefit from it as well. Applying this logic means taking steps towards tackling inequality between countries such as redistributing resources so all may experience improved living conditions without having their fair share denied due unfair practices stemming from disparity between wealthy & poorer nations respectively – something which could potentially addressed international agreements like Paris Agreement via greenhouse gas emission reduction targets!
In conclusion it clear see how utilitarianism applies contemporary issue like climate change: rather than simply focusing solely on present moment need look at bigger picture evaluate each situation totality so arrive best possible outcome overall good! Thus should strive create policies procedures rooted principle maximizing general welfare possible extent capacity regardless difficult decisions may come face along way course events any given time – only when achieve balance between immediate short-term gains long-term objectives reasonable degree will actually able move forward meaningful manner address problem hand head once all said done!
