The main drawback to utilitarian reasoning is that
Multiple Choice
managers using this reasoning process often fail to consider the means taken to reach the end.
it is difficult to accurately measure both costs and benefits.
cost-benefit calculations can only be provided by accountants.
the majority may override the rights of those in the minority.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
the majority may override the rights of those in the minority.
Explanation:
Utilitarian reasoning is a framework for making decisions based on the greatest good for the greatest number. While it can be a useful approach in many situations, there are several drawbacks associated with it.
One of the most significant criticisms of utilitarianism is that it can justify actions that harm the minority if it benefits the majority. This is the core of the issue with utilitarian thinking when applied in ethical decision-making. Since utilitarianism prioritizes the greatest good for the largest number of people, the interests or rights of individuals or smaller groups may be disregarded if their suffering results in greater benefits for a larger population. In practice, this can lead to situations where the needs or rights of minority groups are sacrificed for the benefit of the majority, which raises ethical concerns about fairness and justice.
For example, consider a scenario in which a company could save money and increase overall productivity by laying off a small number of employees. From a purely utilitarian perspective, this may seem like the right decision because it benefits the company and the remaining workers. However, this decision disregards the individual rights and well-being of the employees who lose their jobs, potentially causing harm to them, their families, and communities.
The potential for such outcomes makes it clear why utilitarianism is often criticized for not adequately protecting individual rights and minority interests. Other ethical frameworks, such as deontological ethics, focus more on the morality of actions themselves and the inherent rights of individuals, rather than focusing solely on outcomes.
In summary, while utilitarian reasoning aims to maximize overall well-being, it can justify actions that undermine the rights and welfare of minority groups if it benefits the majority, making it a controversial and sometimes problematic approach in ethics and decision-making.