Making Moral Choices: Utilitarianism in a Dilemma
Visna’s case of moral dilemma presents two challenges: to abort or not to abort. Doctor’s argument suggests that if Visna is to continue with the pregnancy, she will suffer psychological and physical damage. Psychologist too testified that Visna’s chances of getting married to a fellow Hindu would be slim if she continued with her pregnancy. Her parents too, added that not only was Visna’s child was likely to develop genetic abnormalities but also mental retardation. On the other hand, opponents of abortion were ready to provide solutions including money for upkeep and custody of the child in case Visna eventually gives birth. Although the opponents of abortion are interested in offering a solution, they are not considering the professional advice provided by the doctor and the psychologist. Further, they are not taking into account the family member’s concerns about the health of the kid.
Deciding the right thing to do from a utilitarian viewpoint requires a consideration of some issues. On a utilitarian’s perspective, an action or decision is regarded good only if can provide the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people even if the agent derives no happiness at all. A utilitarian also sees all people as equal, and in this case, it does not take into account Visna’s special relationship with her family. It is also important to know that utilitarianism is about maximising happiness and therefore it can support acts such as rape, murder, child molestation, lies, and so forth provided I is the right thing to do. In Visna’s case, the most important task is to calculate the relative amount of pain and pleasure for the most number of people, presently as well as in the future which results from doing the right thing. To a utilitarian, feelings are immaterial in making a right decision. The decision to abort will increase happiness for the doctor, Visna’s family, and the psychologist. The decision not to abort will increase happiness to the abortion opponents but will be a pain to the doctor, Visna’s family, and the psychologist. Abortion opponents are many people and the decision to discontinue abortion will result in happiness for the greatest number of people. The right thing to do then in the case of Visna is not to abort.
