The answer should contact and talking about one of the 4 ethical theories ( Virt

Question

The answer should contact and talking about one of the 4 ethical theories ( Virtue ethics - Utilitarianism ethics - Universal ethics - Ethical Relativism )
In 1842, a ship struck an iceberg, and more than 30 survivorsWlwere crowded into a lifeboat planned to hold 7. As a storm threatened, it became clear that the lifeboat would have to be lightened if anyone were to survive. The captain reasoned that the right thing to do in this situation was to force some individuals to go over the side and drown (die). Such an action, he reasoned, was not unjust to those thrown overboard , for they would have drowned anyway. If he did nothing, however, he would be responsible for the deaths of those whom he could have saved. Some people opposed the captain's decision. They claimed that if nothing were done and everyone died as a result, no one would be responsible for these deaths. On the other hand, if the captain attempted to save some, he could do so only by killing others and their deaths would be his responsibility; this would be worse than doing nothing and letting all die. The captain rejected this reasoning. Since the only possibility for rescue required great efforts of rowingli i, the captain decided that the weakest would have to be sacrificed. In this situation it would be irrational, he thought, to decide by drawing lots who should be thrown overboard. As it turned out, after days of hard rowing, the survivors were rescued and the captain was judged for his action. Did the captain make the right decision? Why or why not Which ethical theory or theories could be applied here? Applied Ethics

Explanation / Answer

Yes, the capitan made the right decision by saving atleast a few rather than letting all of them to die for following reasons : -

1. He was the Captain of the ship so was in command and in charge. It was his duty to save maximum and avoid least damage to life.

2. The choice he made was based on a logic which was reasonable.

3. Though it might appear unjust to those who were asked to drown but in interest of the larger lot, it was necessary.

This is explained by Utilitarianism theory whcih says that the ends justify the means. That means that regardless of the actions taken to achieve goal, if the outcome is better then all actions are justified.

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