Version 2.2
Updates:
- 2017-04-03 Added references to KantTrains PPT slides
The Train
CSC208—Elliott
Background: A train is speeding toward a switch which will direct the train
onto track A or track B. The switch is set to send the train down track
A. You happen to be passing by, see the circumstances, and realize that the
lever for the switch is within your grasp, with time to act. Do you throw
the switch to track B?
- Six innocent children are on track A. Six innocent children are on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. your beloved daughter is one of them. Six innocent children are on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One innocent child is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. Your innocent daughter is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One innocent man is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One innocent old man is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One innocent, very old, very sick
man is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One criminal is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A. One criminal, old, sick,
convicted child rapist is on track B.
- Six innocent children are on track A including your innocent beloved
daughter. One criminal, old, sick, convicted child rapist is on track B.
Refer to the KantTrains PowerPoint slides at D2L for additional actions.
Form a discussion group. Agree to take differing ethical points of view.
Write up two pages of notes to prepare for your ethical discussion, based on
a formal ETHICAL THEORY, print them, and bring them to class for discussion.