What type of ethical issue does the trolley problem relate to?

The trolley problem is primarily associated with utilitarian ethics, which is a moral philosophy that emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number. In the trolley problem, a person is faced with a decision to either pull a lever to divert a runaway trolley onto a track where it will kill one person instead of allowing it to continue on its current path, where it will kill five people. This dilemma highlights the utilitarian principle of maximizing overall happiness or reducing harm by evaluating the consequences of actions.

Utilitarianism requires individuals to consider the outcomes of their decisions, making it particularly relevant in this context. The trolley problem serves as a thought experiment to explore the complexities of moral decision-making and the tensions between individual rights and the collective good, epitomizing the core tenets of utilitarian ethics.