Sunday, April 18, 2010

Explain the difference between act utilitarianism and rule utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism is opposed to rule utilitarianism. Act utilitarianism is based on ethics in a more personal manner as a person’s utility or usefulness satisfies the individual’s needs and morals. In stark contrast, rule utilitarianism is more general in approach unlike act utilitarianism. Rule utilitarianism takes as a whole that morally correct actions brings about good consequences for everyone. For example, a child labor law is designed to protect minors from working in unsafe and unhealthy conditions. Otherwise without such laws, minors may confront mistreatment, neglect, and other abuses.



Baase, S. (2008). A gift of fire: Social, Legal, and ethical issues for computing and the internet 3rd Ed. Upper Saddle River. Pearson Prentice Hall.

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