In the case study, Donald has suffered from severe burns and wishes to die. However, his mother is reluctant to let him have his way. The moral theory that can be applied in this case is the Act Utilitarianism theory. This theory states that one’s act is considered only morally right if it results in the best possible outcome in that particular situation.
In this situation, Donald’s mother has two options. One is to let his son die as he wishes. The second option is to refuse to yield to her son’s wishes and hope that the doctors will save him. The Act Utilitarianism theory requires Donald’s mother to act in a way that would lead to the best outcome for the majority of people involved. Three individuals are involved directly in this case and who will be affected by any action taken by Donald’s mother. These are the mother herself, Donald, and Donald’s fiancé Clementine. For Donald and Clementine, dying is the better option. For Donald’s mother, dying is not a better option because it would rob her of a son. Applying Act Utilitarianism theory, the best option that Donald’s mother should take is to let Donald die. One of the reasons why this is the best action to take is that it would result in the greatest happiness for the highest number of people. Donald does not want to live with his disabilities and dying is a better option for him. His fiancé is of the same view. Another reason is that this option will stop Donald’s suffering. Dying means that Donald would not be forced live his life suffering physically and psychologically.
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Basically, according to the Act Utilitarianism theory, Donald’s mother should let Donald die as it would stop his suffering.
