Discussion Utilitarian and Kantian
principles
Discussion Utilitarian and Kantian principles
1. Discuss the example of Harry Truman dropping nuclear
weapons on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the context of the
Utilitarian and Kantian principles. Also include a discussion of
Elizabeth Anscombe’s critic of Truman.
2. Describe the Categorical Imperative. Be sure to include a
description of how Kant derives the principle from an
understanding that Morality is a matter of reason not emotion.
3. What is Kant’s argument against lying? What is problematic
about it, and what happens when it comes into conflict with other
absolute rules?
4. How do Kant’s core values cause him to embrace retribution,
and reject rehabilitation?
5. What are the Utilitarian arguments for the implementation of
retribution?