What moral issue does the "trolley problem" illustrate?

The "trolley problem" is a well-known ethical dilemma that explores the complexities of moral decision-making, particularly through the lens of utilitarianism. The scenario typically presents a situation where an individual must choose between two difficult options—such as pulling a lever to divert a runaway trolley onto another track, thereby saving multiple people but resulting in the death of one individual on the alternate track.

This problem illustrates utilitarian principles, which prioritize actions that maximize overall happiness or minimize harm. By forcing the decision-maker to weigh the consequences of their actions, the scenario prompts deep consideration of moral values, such as the greater good versus individual rights. The central theme revolves around calculating the net benefits of an action and determining how one should act in situations where lives are at stake.

Utilitarianism emphasizes the importance of outcomes in ethical decision-making, making this moral issue pivotal in discussions on ethics, philosophy, and psychology. The other options, while relevant to various ethical discussions, do not directly pertain to the core of the trolley problem's moral quandary regarding the prioritization of collective well-being over individual sacrifice.