Trolley Problem

Today we wrapped up talking about utilitarianism by conducting a classic thought experiment called the Trolley Problem. The conundrum asks you to weigh the value of individuals given a life and death encounter with a runaway train. If the three scenarios we tackled in class weren't enough, this 8-bit rendition of the problem poses a few other possible scenarios.
Trolley Problem Game

In your opinion, does the Trolley Problem generate valuable ethical debate, or are the Trolley Problem and similar hypothetical scenarios just weak substitutes for real world problems?

Ethics and Science-Fiction

Ursula K. Leguin created the short story "Those That Walked Away from Omelas" that we utilized in our initial study of utilitarianism. While science-fiction is often used to teach students about ethical dilemmas, both contemporary and imagined, it is rarely done with such poignant appeal to human emotions. For those that might have enjoyed the taste of Leguin's work they received in class, I encourage you to look deeper into her contributions to literature and subsequently ethics. You might find surprises such as a connection to Academy Award winning animation studio Ghibli...

Did reading Leguin's short story inspire any of you to change the way you live your life or the way you feel about a current events issue?

The Right Thing and You: A Beginner's Guide

Welcome to Mr. Hindman's blog to accompany the CAL WR122/Senior English unit on ethics. This Blog will feature interesting supplementary materials to further engage your study of ethics as well as helpful reminders of upcoming assignments. Check in regularly for updates concerning your study of ethics.