Teleological Theory April 7, 2024 Warner Case 5: Prosecution

Teleological Theory April 7, 2024 Warner Case #5: Prosecuting Attorney

Each of the terms listed below relate to ethics—either a theory or a concept. You are to prepare a definitive research writing submitted in an attached Word document file that explains the concepts, applies them to Warner case studies, and finally analyzes each of the concepts. The following information should be at the top of all your submitted files. Name Exercise Number (2.1, 2.2 etc.) Exercise Theory Name Theory Description: The descriptions of the theories should be such that anyone would be able to read and understand the concepts. This part should have references.

See below for instructions. Theory Application: The theory applications are to be applications of the theories to the case studies in the Warner text. The case numbers for the applications are identified below. Theory Analysis: The theory analysis is a critical analysis of the theory comparing likes/dislikes, weaknesses/strengths, pros/cons of the theories as you interpret them from your research. The theory description portion especially should be a documented research description with references.

The format for the references will be references-cited format. Within the body of the text the citation will be included with the author’s name, the year of the publication, and the page numbers in parentheses. Example: (Smith,1990, 29-33). If there is no page number, use n.p. A reference list will then be included at the end of the paper with a complete bibliographic reference which will include the author’s name, the title of the publication, the year of the publication, and the place of the publication.

If it is a journal article, the page numbers will be included also. For online references you will need to include the URL address. The reader should be able to replicate your research for further information on the topic. Remember to include Frankena references as you use them in your papers but you should also conduct other research on the theories. There is a wealth of information on ethical theories and you should find references that add the most to your understanding of the theories.

Each theory description is worth 10 points and should be no more than two typical typed pages. (This is not about the number of words but rather the understanding of the words so the “pages” may be double or single spaced.) Since this assignment is submitted in parts it can be submitted singularly, in multiples, and/or included with any of exercises 1, and 3-6. One point will be deducted for each DAY late the report is not submitted. All of Exercise 2 has a value of 100 points. LATE PTS DEDUCTED AFTER 11:00 p.m. CST Exercise 2.3: Teleological Theory April 7, 2024 Warner Case #5: Prosecuting Attorney Exercise 2.4: Deontological Theory April 7, 2024 Warner Case #5: Prosecuting Attorney

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The ethical framework of teleological theory, also known as consequentialism, is rooted in the idea that the morality of an action is determined solely by its outcomes or consequences. This approach emphasizes the importance of maximizing positive results and minimizing negative ones, thus underpinning various utilitarian philosophies and guiding ethical decision-making in complex scenarios such as legal prosecutorial conduct. An understanding of teleological principles is essential to evaluate ethically sound decisions, especially within legal cases like Warner’s prosecutorial conduct, where the end results significantly influence moral judgments.

Definition and Explanation of Teleological Theory

Teleological theory asserts that the ethical value of an act is contingent upon its end results. The primary form of teleological ethics is utilitarianism, which advocates for actions that produce the greatest happiness or benefit for the greatest number (Mill, 1863, p. 10). Jeremy Bentham, a prominent utilitarian philosopher, argued that morality should be judged by the extent to which actions promote pleasure or alleviate pain (Bentham, 1789, p. 74). According to this perspective, the morality of prosecutorial decisions relies on their outcomes, such as ensuring justice, safeguarding public safety, or protecting individual rights, depending on which produces the most favorable consequences (Singer, 2011, p. 89).

Application to Warner Case Study

In the Warner Case #5, the prosecuting attorney faces ethical questions about the outcomes of their actions, including whether pursuing certain charges aligns with the broader aim of justice or personal gain. Applying teleological ethics, one might evaluate whether the prosecutor’s decisions lead to the greatest overall good—for example, securing a conviction that deters crime or upholding fairness for the defendant. If the prosecutor’s actions result in a net positive outcome, such as ensuring community safety without undue harm to the defendant, they are deemed ethically appropriate under teleological principles. Conversely, if the actions cause more harm—such as wrongful conviction or excessive punishment—their morality comes into question.

Critical Analysis of Teleological Theory

Teleological ethics, particularly utilitarianism, offers practical guidance for ethical decision-making by emphasizing results, which makes it appealing in real-world contexts like law enforcement and prosecution. Its strengths include flexibility and a focus on tangible benefits, allowing for adaptations to complex situations. However, criticisms include its potential to justify morally questionable actions if they lead to favorable outcomes. For instance, sacrificing individual rights for perceived greater good can lead to injustices, emphasizing a significant weakness of consequentialism. Additionally, calculating all potential outcomes is often impractical, and difficult to quantify moral benefits and harms accurately.

Conclusion

Teleological theory provides a consequentialist framework emphasizing outcomes, which in the context of the Warner prosecutorial case, encourages decisions aimed at the greater good. However, its practical application must be tempered with caution to prevent justifying unethical behavior based solely on favorable outcomes. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of teleological ethics is essential for ethical decision-making in legal practice, ensuring that pursuit of results does not override fundamental moral principles.

References

• Bentham, J. (1789). An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation. Clarendon Press.
• Mill, J. S. (1863). Utilitarianism. Parker, Son, and Bourn.
• Singer, P. (2011). Practical Ethics. Cambridge University Press.