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Ethical theories

2.3 Teleological perspectives

Egoism

 Sometimes thought of as the view 'what is best for me?'. An action is morally
right if the decision maker freely decides in order to pursue either their short-term
desires or longer-term interests.

 The egoist will also do what appears to be ‘right’ in society because it makes
them feel better.

 Egoism does not always work because actions on all members of society cannot
be determined.

Utilitarianism

 Sometimes taught as the idea of 'what is best for the greatest number?'.

 An action is morally right if it results in the greatest amount of good for the
greatest number of people affected by that action.

 It applies to society as a whole and not the individual.

 It is valuable in business decisions because it introduces the concept of ‘utility’ –
or the economic value of actions.

 It is highly subjective.

Illustrations and further practice

Now try TYU question 1

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