Single Idea 22388

[catalogued under 20. Action / C. Motives for Action / 5. Action Dilemmas / b. Double Effect]

Full Idea

The strength of the doctrine of double effect seems to lie in the distinction it makes between what we do (equated with direct intention) and what we allow (thought of as obliquely intended).

Gist of Idea

Double effect seems to rely on a distinction between what we do and what we allow

Source

Philippa Foot (Abortion and the Doctrine of Double Effect [1967], p.25)

Book Reference

Foot,Philippa: 'Virtues and Vices' [Blackwell 1981], p.25


A Reaction

She objects (nicely), saying her trolley driver 'does' the side-effect killing, and someone might 'allow' an obvious criminal death. There is also an intermediate class of 'brought about', where you set up a killing, but don't do it.