The concept of torture is subjective for each person. Some people consider this phenomenon to be quite acceptable, and some unacceptable. It is easy to understand the arguments of each side, but I still oppose torture. Nevertheless, it is worth referring to little-known terms, namely utilitarianism and deontology. The first term states that the assessment of all objects, processes, phenomena, and information should be evaluated only in terms of their usefulness and the ability to serve as a means to achieve any goals (Acting on Utilitarianism – Utilitarianism.net, n.d.). The second term, on the other hand, is connected with the subject of duties and moral norms. The most significant advantage is that one can learn helpful information from the same prisoner. At the same time, deontology condemns torture in one way or another because it is directed against humanism as a whole – it allows us to adhere to the principles of humanity and human rights. It is believed that Kant was a supporter of torture, while Bentham condemned such forms of violence.
It is difficult to determine whether humans are inherently good or evil. Some theorists believe one of the other holds a basis in human nature, while others attribute the creation of the human identity to the surrounding society. The book and film “Lord of the Flies” have long been seen as a demonstration of the deep-rooted selfishness people possess. Seeing the character progression of Jack and other boys, supporters of this theory argue that people left to their own devices will inevitably revert to violence. However, this theory can be contrasted by the account of the “Real Lord of the Flies”, an event the famous book is reminiscent of (ABC News Australia, 2020). Contrary to the narrative of the book, the stranded boys have worked together to survive and navigate conflicts peacefully, even going as far as treating each other’s injuries. This example showcases that humans are capable of being kind and selfless even without an external system of governance or control. Despite this, each person’s view of the very understanding of humanity differs dramatically from similar representatives. Generally, they form a conception of humanity by referencing a collective vision.
It is also worth noting that the idea of humanity itself is controversial and viewed from different angles. If one believes that humans are an end in themselves, this morally elevates members of the species while at the same time suppressing and downgrading the necessity of other beings (Acting on Utilitarianism – Utilitarianism.net, n.d.). According to this idea, human rights are elevated above all other beings, which can create a kind of discrimination against those who do not fit or are excluded from this definition. It is possible to view such rights positively if, with the high priority of the right, one is also given greater responsibility for one’s actions. This way, it is possible to preserve the right of a rational being as the top right while avoiding discrimination against nonreasonable beings.
References
ABC News Australia. (2020). The real-life “Lord of the Flies” | 7.30 [YouTube Video]. In YouTube. Web.
Acting on Utilitarianism – Utilitarianism.net. (n.d.). Utilitarianism. Web.