4.1) The pragmatic approach
Pragmatism: Often,
pragmatism is seen as the opposite of idealism. Context is essential in
assessing the factors that make up the dilemma, and the approach emphasizes the
ability to be flexible in weighing competing values. Norms, principles, and
moral criteria are improved by pursuing constant inquiry, and there is no one
solution fits all. Right and wrong, good and bad, are all relative to a given
situation, circumstance, or personal conviction.
Emmett Brown's Dilemma:
To approach Emmett Brown's situation pragmatically, he should first assess and weigh all factors that come into play. These include considering the other workers who have already devoted so much time (18 hour days) and are likely dependent on maintaining their jobs to support their families. His decision can be what bankrupts his company forcing thousands to lose their jobs. There is a possibility that if he remains silent the bug won't be found out and everything runs smoothly. There is also a chance that people may actually die. Additionally, Emmett must come to terms with how his decision will affect his career, such as causing him to go to jail or lose face. All these factors must be taken into account and Emmett must ultimately make a choice of which he shall prioritize.
A pragmatic approach will allow Emmett to strive for a solution that properly assesses the full context of his situation. While it may not be ultimately the best solution, it at least moves Emmett to reach the most "right" solution in accordance to his ethical values. While some people will reach a conclusion to not sign off on the design because they put the risk of life endangerment as an utmost priority, others can conclude to sign off because they accept the small risk using the same way of approaching the situation pragmatically. There is no one correct conclusion using a pragmatic approach as the decision varies based off of the individual's moral code. In both scenario A and B, Emmett decides that the livelihood of the people and company outweigh the possible risk to the lives of the pilot testers. In scenario A, his gamble on those pilots' lives ultimately proves successful, and he saves the jobs of thousands. In scenario B though, that gamble fails but Emmett decides to resign.
A pragmatic approach will allow Emmett to strive for a solution that properly assesses the full context of his situation. While it may not be ultimately the best solution, it at least moves Emmett to reach the most "right" solution in accordance to his ethical values. While some people will reach a conclusion to not sign off on the design because they put the risk of life endangerment as an utmost priority, others can conclude to sign off because they accept the small risk using the same way of approaching the situation pragmatically. There is no one correct conclusion using a pragmatic approach as the decision varies based off of the individual's moral code. In both scenario A and B, Emmett decides that the livelihood of the people and company outweigh the possible risk to the lives of the pilot testers. In scenario A, his gamble on those pilots' lives ultimately proves successful, and he saves the jobs of thousands. In scenario B though, that gamble fails but Emmett decides to resign.
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