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Can utilitarianism be reconciled with other philosophical schools of thought like deontological ethics or virtue ethics?

Olene Oxer

Utilitarianism is a philosophical school of thought that is rooted in the idea of maximizing happiness for the greatest number of people. This approach to ethics is often held in tension with other philosophical approaches, like deontological ethics or virtue ethics. However, it is possible to reconcile utilitarianism with these other schools of thought by understanding each approach more deeply and seeking common ground between them.

Deontological ethics is a philosophical approach that emphasizes moral duties and obligations. According to deontologists, some actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. One way to reconcile utilitarianism with deontological ethics is to recognize that the moral duties and obligations that deontologists emphasize can converge with the goal of maximizing overall happiness. For example, a deontologist might argue that lying is always wrong, because it violates our duty to tell the truth. However, a utilitarian might argue that lying is sometimes necessary in order to prevent harm to others. In this case, the utilitarian goal of maximizing overall happiness can be compatible with the deontological obligation to tell the truth in most cases. By understanding the underlying principles of both approaches, it is possible to find common ground and reconcile seemingly contradictory ideas.

Similarly, it is possible to reconcile utilitarianism with virtue ethics, which emphasizes the development of moral character and the cultivation of virtues like compassion, honesty, and courage. One way to do this is to recognize that the cultivation of virtues can contribute to the overall happiness of individuals and society. For example, a virtuous person who is kind, empathetic, and fair is likely to contribute to a more harmonious and fulfilling community. By embracing the virtues that are valued by virtue ethics, individuals can become more effective agents for maximizing overall happiness.

In addition to finding common ground with other philosophical schools of thought, it is important for adherents of utilitarianism to be aware of the potential limitations of this approach. For example, some critics argue that utilitarianism can lead to the oppression of minorities or the sacrifice of individual rights for the greater good. However, by engaging with these critiques and seeking to refine and improve the utilitarian approach, it is possible to create a more nuanced and effective ethical framework.

In conclusion, utilitarianism can be reconciled with other philosophical schools of thought by understanding the underlying principles and seeking common ground between them. By recognizing the moral obligations emphasized by deontological ethics and the virtues valued by virtue ethics, utilitarianism can become a more robust and nuanced approach to ethics. While there are potential limitations to utilitarianism, by engaging with critiques and seeking to refine the approach, it is possible to create a more effective and socially responsible ethical framework.