philosophy midterm 2
Is torture considered a moral practice in U.S. anti-terror efforts? Today, 48% say there are some circumstances under which the use of torture is acceptable in U.S. anti-terrorism efforts; However, about 49% say there are no circumstances under which the use of torture is morally acceptable. In this essay, you will decide if torture is a moral practice in U.S. In order to do so, you must apply Utilitarianism to be in favor of torture OR Apply Kant’s Categorical Imperative to be against torture. You must have a clear and solid position. Apply one theory in order to obtain points. Not applying Utilitarianism or Kant’s categorical Imperative results in an automatic zero in this question. This question is 40 points, therefore you must have a minimum of five paragraphs.
Utilitarianism-Fully apply Bentham’s Principle of Utility for 20 points and his Felicific Calculus for another 20 points. You may apply Rule-Utilitarianism, as it forms a basis for the morality of torture.
Kant’s Categorical Imperative- Fully apply Kant’s first formulation for 20 points and apply Kant’s second formulation for another 20 points.
