Ethical Dilemma: Deciding People’s Fate

Ethical Dilemma: Deciding People’s Fate. You are on a sinking ship and there is only ONE lifeboat available.  Posted on

the side of the lifeboat is a sign which reads, “Maximum Occupancy” – 8

persons…this boat will sink if over occupied.” Standing on the deck and waiting

on board the lifeboat are nine adults and one child. You must decide who dies.

Be prepared to defend your decision.

Persons on deck

•You

•A young mother and her infant son

•A 75 year old retired physician

•His 68 year old wife

•A 17 year old, pregnant girl (this counts as one person)

•A professional athlete (male)

•A member of the clergy

•A middle aged school teacher and

•Her husband, a banker

Who Boards the Lifeboat?  Why?

Who goes down with the ship?  Why?