Moral Responsibility of Friends in Telling the Truth: A Discussion on Utilitarianism and Kantian Ethics

Ethics 1
Ethics

Ethics 2
Introduction:
Ethics are those beliefs which shape the way in which individual lie their lives, which
means, it determine the actions an individual do. In other words, it reflects the values and beliefs
of an individual through their actions in terms of living their lives.
This Report discusses the moral responsibility own by friends in terms of in terms of
telling or not telling each other the truth. This statement is discussed in context of any two ethical
theories that are utilitarianism and Kantian ethics, and it further discuss the suitability of the
theory between these two discussed theories. Lastly, brief conclusion is stated which concludes
the important facts of this paper.
Discussion
Account of friendship is discussed by Aristotle’s in different books, and as per this
discussion it is clear that ethics play important role in the relation of friendship. Aristotle further
states, no person can choose to live without their friends even such person has the other god
relations. However, morality and values are important in friendship too, as there are number of
moral duties which friends owe to each other. Transparency and loyalty is considered as
important elements for any relationship, and similar requirement exists in the relationship of
friendship also. However, whether it is right to tell truth in each and every time or it depends on
the situations (Driver, 2006).
This moral duty of telling truth to the friends is discussed in terms of the two ethical
theories, as both the theories are stated below-
Utilitarianism Theory- This theory is deemed as the well-known and most influential
theory of the moral and ethics. The basic idea behind this theory is that whether actions
conducted by the individual is morally right or wrong is determined through the effects are
results of that action. Specifically, the action is deemed as moral action if effects or results of
such actions are good, and in case effects and results of such actions are bad then such action is
considered as the bad action. Followers of this consider the friendship as an instrument only, and
not the important element of the good life. They believe only theoretical concepts and not the
value of the beloved intrinsically, which means, they does not consider the happiness or the
satisfaction. Therefore, it can be said that, direct utilitarianism is not able to encourage the goods
of friendship and love (prevos, no date).
In context of this theory, Friends must tell the truth to the other friend if such truth results
in something good. In other words, in case such truth does not result in something good or cause
any harm to the other friends then it is advised not to tell the truth. It can be said that, this theory
directly rejects the moral codes or systems that mainly include the commands or taboos. This
theory believes that the morality is to make the life better by enhancing the good action and
reducing the bad action. Therefore, if any truth fails to enhance the good action then such truth