In reading the stories of Ms. Jones’ and Ms. Burner it is my opinion that the principle of maximization cannot be applied to both stories. When it comes to lying I feel every situation is different. Each one should be handled on an individual basis. It is my belief that the one thing that should never be sacrificed when telling a lie is integrity. Although Ms. Jones’ lied to Mr. Pugnacious I do not feel it was a situation that compromised her integrity. She did what she felt was best for all the parties involved. My definition of integrity is taking what you know is right within you and being able to outwardly express or make known your position in every situation. As for the case of Ms. Burner and Chico I absolutely would not lie because I definitely feel that this would compromise someone’s integrity. I feel Chico’s ordeal is in no way the same as Ms. Jones lying to Mr. Pugnacious. Mr. Pugnacious son, Johnnie obviously has issues of his own to deal with and his actions are probably a direct result of his fathers abuse. As for Chico’s situation the true should come out and maybe that would give him a wake up call in trying to change his direction in life.
A nonconsequentialist analysis of this situation leads me to believe that greater good would come from treating others, as I would wish to be treated. The story indicates that Chico was never a very bad student but actions like those proposed by Mr. Lopez if discovered could have serious unforeseen consequences. Application of the Golden Rule and showing respect for other individuals would seem to be more important in this scenario. The reason I believe this is because I feel that all individuals are entitled to the same basic rights. According to Kant, The Golden rule requires that we act in ways that respect the equal worth of moral agents. He calls this idea the principle of equal respect for persons. Although Chico should not have been in possession of the knife and should be disciplined we do not have the right to lie so that Chico can be punished. I believe showing respect in this case would be by explaining fully to all parties involved how and why Ms. Burner discovered the knife. I understand that Ms. Burner was suspicious about Chico buying those items, but there are many twenty - dollar bills in circulation and without proof it does not give her the right to search his items. I believe that she has every right to be alarmed about the large switchblade and she went about
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