What Is Henry Shue's Main Point in His Argument About

question 48

Multiple Choice

What is Henry Shue's main point in his argument about the ticking time bomb in Paris?

• A) When someone has done or is about to do something seriously morally wrong, it is permissible to torture that person to prevent or correct the wrong that he or she has committed.
• B) The case of the ticking time bomb shows that, ultimately, only the consequences of one's actions matter, even if those actions strike many people as wrong or would be wrong in most circumstances.
• C) There are conceivable but unrealistic circumstances in which the consequences of torturing someone are so much better than the consequences of not torturing that person that it would be permissible to torture the person.
• D) Although torture is generally wrong because it violates serious deontological constraints, it is nonetheless permissible when the consequences of torturing someone are better than the consequences of not torturing that person.

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Definitions:

Economic Pie

A metaphorical term indicating the total amount of wealth or resources available for distribution within an economy.

Efficiency

Refers to the ability to achieve a desired result without wasting materials, time, or energy.

Equality

The circumstance in which all individuals possess identical opportunities, rights, and standing.

Opportunity Cost

The cost of the next best alternative foregone as a result of making a decision.