Explain how Utilitarians might approach euthanasia

Utilitarianism provides a teleological approach, meaning that the outcome of a given situation determines whether the action is right or wrong. Bentham’s hedonic calculus is used to weigh up elements of a situation, for example, how much pain or pleasure is involved and how intense these factors are. A utilitarian would therefore argue that for example, for someone who is fatally ill with a high level of suffering, euthanasia would be permissible, in order to achieve the least amount of pain, even if this results in death.

EL
Answered by Elizabeth L. Philosophy and Ethics tutor

6819 Views

See similar Philosophy and Ethics A Level tutors

Related Philosophy and Ethics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Ethics: Considering Deontological Arguments of Ethics, to what extent do the strengths and weaknesses demonstrate the plausibility of this argument as a guideline for moral decision making?


What is the difference between deontological ethics and teleological ethics?


How can 'Natural Moral Law' be critiqued as an ethical theory?


What are some criticisms of Augustine's Soul-Deciding Theodicy?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning