Discussion Questions

  1. Thinking back to Chapter 8, how would our response to terrorism “look” if we acted in a way that is consistent with consequentialist theory? Discuss how it would be different, perhaps, from act versus rule consequentialism.
  2. Consider the quote by William Shaw (p. 277) “Realism and empiricism are the hallmarks of a utilitarian orientation, not customary practice, unverified abstractions, or wishful thinking”. Use this statement to compare and contrast utilitarian and deontological perspectives. Which one better fits this quote? Why?
  3. Consider the Discussion Case (pp. 285-286). Based on public policy and utilitarianism, should the officer be punished in this case? Why should he be? Why shouldn’t he be? Would the outcome be different if you applied deontological theory here? How so?