In real life, people face multiple ethical dilemmas regularly, analyzing their behaviors, weighing their decisions, and thinking about the consequences of their words and actions. In movies, the number of such questions increases because there is a possibility to neglect some rules and underline the worth of social aspects. In the Batman series, the decision not to kill the Joker provokes many discussions on ethical grounds.
It is hard to give a clear answer to the question about the necessity for Batman to kill the Joker, and personal judgments play an important role. On the one hand, utilitarian ethics supports the idea of murdering a serial killer who takes human lives unreasonably and violently (White & Arp, 2008). The Joker’s crimes are unpredictable and irrational because this person knows no compassion. He is a psychopath with a brilliant criminal mind and a rather sadistic sense of humor. Batman, in his turn, always follows a code of ethics, respect, and justice in society. He knows that the Joker’s death could minimize the number of victims in the city and reduce crime rates.
On the other hand, deontology and virtue ethics rejects the idea of killing because of definite moral values and humanity’s understanding (White & Arp, 2008). The Joker, as well as Batman or any other villain, remains a human. He deserves a chance to change his behavior and be punished according to the existing law and regulations. As soon as Batman kills him, he could put his moral judgments under threat and accept the possibility of using force and similar outcomes on others.
Thus, considering all pros and cons of the current situation, killing the Joker would be an ethically wrong decision for Batman from most perspectives. Heroes should not regret their decisions but be confident that they do everything socially and legally right. Despite the Joker’s cruelty and inhumanity, Batman is behind all these negative qualities, which explains his mercy and the decision to save his life and bring him to justice.
Reference
White, M. D., & Arp, R. (2008). Should Batman kill the Joker? The New York Times. Web.