Utilitarianism and Kant’s Moral Theory differ in several ways. For example, utilitarianism defines ethical values based on the end results as opposed to the anticipated consequences. On the other hand, Kant's ethical theory determines the rectitude of a deed based on the entire ethical decision with regard to the nature of the deed; the results are totally unimportant. Also, the two theories differ on the fundamental moral principles. For example, utilitarianism emphasizes on creating value for other people while Kant considers procedures to be imperative in determining the morality of an action. This paper explores the similarity, differences, advantages and disadvantages of the utilitarianism and moral theory
In addition, the two theories differ with regard to moral contentment. For example, the utilitarian theory describes the defining ground for moral will as contentment, which is experiential and substantial. On the other hand, Kant maintains that morality cannot be defined on any other basis except the moral law, which cannot be derived from any other sources (Reath 243).
Kant's moral theory emphasizes on the importance of freedom and its significance in the development of the sense of independent law-making of will. On the other hand, the utilitarian theory does not recognize the importance of freedom of thought in the decision making process. Although the two theories differ in many ways, they both argue that anything right for an individual should be right for other people in a similar situation.
Both of the two theories have advantages and disadvantages. Some of the benefits of utilitarianism include the fact that it offers people a chance to help others and the incorporation of universal principles in its definition of morality. Also, utilitarianism aims at decreasing pain and increasing pleasure and joy to people.
The disadvantages of utilitarianism include the difficulty experienced in defining or grading happiness and the lack of an explanation on how the joy is distributed (Utilitarianism 114). The advantages of Kant’s moral theory include the fact that the theory emphasizes the worth of every human, acknowledges that some deeds are always wrong regardless of a positive outcome, and addresses both the course and ends of an act. Some disadvantages of Kant’s moral theory include the fact that it encourages actions that make the world a lesser right place and also difficult to reunite disagreeing responsibilities (Dean 421). However, when the two theories are compared, utilitarianism appears to be more desirable as it does not make the world a dangerous place to live in and also it advocates for the welfare of others.
Works Cited
Dean, Richard. The Value Of Humanity In Kant's Moral Theory. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 2006. Print.
Reath, Andrews. Agency And Autonomy In Kant's Moral Theory. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 2006. Print.
Utilitarianism. The University of Adelaide Library, 2008. Print.
