Double Effect Principle

Synonyms

Doctrine of Double Effect

Doctrine, Double Effect

Double Effect Doctrine

Double Effect Rule

Effect Doctrine, Double

Effect Principle, Double

Effect Rule, Double

Principle of Double Effect

Principle, Double Effect

Principles, Double Effect

Rule of Double Effect

Rule, Double Effect

Guideline for determining when it is morally permissible to perform an action to pursue a good end with knowledge that the action will also bring about bad results. It generally states that, in cases where a contemplated action has such double effect, the action is permissible only if: it is not wrong in itself; the bad result is not intended; the good result is not a direct causal result of the bad result; and the good result is "proportionate to" the bad result. (from Solomon, "Double Effect," in Becker, The Encyclopedia of Ethics, 1992)

See Also