Question

In a science fiction movie, an officer is implementing an experimental process to prevent a catastrophic geologic event affecting a primitive indigenous alien population. a crew of a starship vessel is willing to save him; however, environmental conditions prevent simple extraction. the commander refuses to let the crew extract the officer, proclaiming "the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or in this case, one." the commander's conclusion is based on which moral theory?

Answer 1

The commander's conclusion is based on utilitarianism, which is the belief that whatever action benefits the most people is the morally correct action to take. Even if that action is harmful to oneself or even illegal.