And 32 alternatives to the trolley problem
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TopCat wrote:Ok, this thread has been a bit wussy so far. Nice try RR, but let's make it a little more interesting.
So the single guy (or gal) is your best and closest mate, you've known him for years.
What's the maximum number of random strangers with whom you have no connection would you sacrifice to save your friend? If it helps, you can take it that (s)he doesn't know it's you that's saving him or her, so won't have a massive guilt trip afterwards.
This is about you.
So... a number?
Rumraket wrote:In all seriousness, given how you phrased the question I take it that it is a similar conondrum to the real trolley problem? As in I can only divert the train down a different track, not prevent it from killing someone altogether. And the choise before me is my friend vs some strangers the number of which I get to pick.
Then the answer is one, if I could only alter the direction of the train, not do anything to stop it, then I would be "okay" with having the ability to decide that I'd rather have my friend survive.
If it was my friend vs two random strangers, I would not make the choice to sacrifice two other people to save my friend.
Rumraket wrote:If it was my friend vs two random strangers, I would not make the choice to sacrifice two other people to save my friend.
TopCat wrote:Rumraket wrote:If it was my friend vs two random strangers, I would not make the choice to sacrifice two other people to save my friend.
Interesting. I'm still working on a number, but my instinct is more than one. Maybe even quite a lot more than one.
I guess it boils down to how strong one's in-group bias is. Mine feels quite strong.
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