Ethical Dilemmas in the Trolley Problem

The video explores the trolley problem, an ethical dilemma introduced by Philippa Foot in 1967. It presents scenarios where one must choose between sacrificing one person to save five, highlighting the utilitarian perspective. The video discusses variations of the problem, such as the bridge scenario, and examines psychological and gender differences in decision-making. It also addresses criticisms of the problem's realism and its relevance to modern technology, like autonomous vehicles and military drones, emphasizing the need for ethical programming.

What is the main ethical dilemma presented in the trolley problem?

• Deciding whether to sacrifice one person to save five

• Choosing between two equally good outcomes

• Selecting the best workers for a task

• Determining the fastest route for a trolley

Which philosophical principle supports the idea of flipping the switch in the trolley problem?

• Deontology

• Virtue Ethics

• Utilitarianism

• Existentialism

In the bridge variation of the trolley problem, what action is proposed to stop the trolley?

• Pushing a large man off the bridge

• Jumping in front of the trolley

• Flipping a switch

• Calling for help

Why do people generally find the bridge variation of the trolley problem more difficult to justify?

• It feels more personal and direct

• It is less realistic

• It involves more people

• It has a clearer outcome

Which group is more likely to say it's okay to push the man over the bridge?

• Women

• Men

• Children

• Elderly

What does brain activity reveal about people's responses to the trolley problem?

• There is no difference in brain activity

• The bridge scenario activates stronger emotional responses

• Both scenarios activate only logical areas of the brain

• The classic scenario is more emotionally charged

What criticism is often directed at the trolley problem?

• It is outdated

• It is too complex

• It is unrealistic

• It is too simple

How might the trolley problem be relevant to driver-less cars?

• They need to choose the fastest route

• They must always stop at red lights

• They need to avoid all accidents

• They may face decisions about causing small accidents to prevent larger ones

What is a potential application of the trolley problem in military technology?

• Programming drones to avoid all casualties

• Building more durable drones

• Designing faster drones

• Deciding whether to risk civilian casualties for a high-value target

What is the main challenge in programming ethics into machines?

• Ensuring machines are fast

• Reducing the cost of machines

• Deciding how to value human life and the greater good

• Making machines more durable