A Brief on Consequentialism

Consequentialism and non-consequentialism are both action based ethical frameworks that people can use to make ethical judgments. Consequentialism is based on examining the consequences of one’s actions as opposed to non-consequentialism which is focused on whether the act is right or wrong regardless of the outcome (Burgh, Field & Freakley, 2006). The three sub-categories of consequentialism are altruism, utilitarianism and egoism.

Altruism is when the actions of a person promote the best consequences for others, yet do not benefit the person who performed the act. Abruzzi and McGandy (2006) explain that Auguste Comte developed the term to support his ethical stance that humans are morally obliged to serve the interests of others, even at their own expense. From an altruism perspective the teacher should take her need to be employed out of the equation. The consequences for Del and his family would be that they are free to practice their beliefs without fear of persecution and feel included and safe in the community. The other class members and the community would understand that their values are not threatened by the family.

Utilitarianism is when the actions of the person would provide the best possible outcomes for the greatest number of people that are affected by that decision including the decision maker (Mill, n.d). From a utilitarianism perspective the teacher needs to create an action plan that considers the needs of all people. The consequences of this would be that the class, teacher and community would become familiar with other cultural beliefs and embrace diversity which in turn should create a safe and inclusive environment.

Egoism is the act of pursuing a particular course of action that is driven by 'sel...

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...s this is her personal connection with Del through engaging conversations on the playground, her spatial proximity to Del during the school day and his problems are presently occurring (temporal) and he is most at risk. The teacher would also need to consider her relationship with her class, the community and her colleagues.

Making a decision based in care ethics would focus on the relationship between the teacher and Del. The focus would be on Del’s best interest; one possibility is that the teacher may conference one-on-one with Del to find out how he feels and to develop an action plan that suits his needs. Alternatively she may make decisions based on what she believes is best or invite other stakeholders to assist in the development of an action plan. This is justified in care ethics because she wants to uphold and strengthen the relationship between them.