Dexter and Ethical Theories

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Mary Dominique Patchin Econ 4999 Feb 24, 2008 4999 Patchin Essay 1 Dexter and Ethical Theories This paper will discuss a character from the TV show Dexter and how his actions are perceived in different ethical philosophies. The character Dexter Morgan’s actions are perceived very differently in each of these ethical theories. Dexter’s actions will be discussed in context with many different moral philosophies including: Economical Ethical Theory Consequentialist Theory, Utilitarism, Processists, Rights Theory, and Divine Command Theory. The TV show ‘Dexter’ is the story of a man named Dexter Morgan. Dexter works as a blood spatter expert for the Florida Police, he has a girlfriend, a good relationship with his foster sister, and he likes to kill murderers. Dexter had a traumatic childhood and came to live with a foster family and was eventually adopted by them. His foster father Harry taught Dexter how to kill without being caught, and taught him rules for killing. Harry told him that killing must serve a purpose and taught him to only kill other murderers. Dexter throughout the show lives by Harry’s rules. Different ethical philosophies such as Divine Command Theory and Economic Ethical Theory would have contradicting views on Dexter’s actions. This paper will discuss Dexter’s actions and how they are perceived in different ethical theories. Economic Ethical Theory is based on Consequentialist Theory. “Economists are ethical consequentialists: we judge actions and policies solely on the basis of their consequences/outcomes.” (Morey 4). To determine whether something is good or right in Economical Ethics you have to look at a few things such as: utility, cost benefit analysis, efficiency and externalities. Dexter has a preference for killing people. He works with his constraints such as the law to maximize his utility and not get caught. Because Dexter is

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