211: Why We Train for Both Proportionality and Utility

Published on May 28, 2024
Duration: 28:53

This discussion explores the tension between proportionality and utility in the context of violence and warfare. Proportionality acts as a moral constraint, ensuring harm is weighed against valuable goals, while utility focuses on effectiveness. The video emphasizes that unchecked utility can lead to a 'might makes right' scenario, and proportionality can be corrupted by viewing individuals unequally. Developing a true understanding of proportionality and appropriate force is best achieved through practical experience and training, not just abstract thought.

Quick Summary

The critical tension in the use of force lies between proportionality, a moral constraint on harm, and utility, the effectiveness of an action. Proportionality requires viewing individuals as equals, while utility can devolve into 'might makes right.' Developing a true understanding of appropriate force is best achieved through practical training and experience, not just philosophical discussion.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Proportionality vs. Utility
  2. 01:26Defining Proportionality (Jeff McMahan)
  3. 03:22Sponsor: Obsidian Arms
  4. 04:38The Tension Between Proportionality and Utility
  5. 05:07Proportionality as a Constraint
  6. 07:35Appropriate Use of Force
  7. 08:19The Escalation of Conflict
  8. 09:21John Wick Example: Vengeance vs. Proportionality
  9. 10:53Proportionality in Tension with Utility (Pragmatism)
  10. 12:00Utility of Eradication vs. Proportional Response
  11. 14:03The Dangers of Pure Utilitarianism
  12. 15:21Corruption of Proportionality and Utility
  13. 18:01Proportionality in War: Innocent Lives
  14. 19:36Application: Learning Appropriateness Through Training
  15. 20:53Proportionality Failures in Contemporary Culture
  16. 21:21Asymmetrical Warfare and Campus Protests
  17. 23:34Proportionality Through Understanding Use of Force
  18. 24:45Training as Restraint and Moral Implication
  19. 25:49Understanding Violence: Police Officer Example
  20. 26:38Summary: Proportionality and Utility
  21. 27:34Recommendation: Engage in Training

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core tension discussed regarding the use of force?

The core tension is between proportionality, which acts as a moral constraint on the amount of harm caused relative to a goal, and utility, which focuses on the effectiveness or pragmatism of an action to achieve that goal. Unchecked utility can lead to unethical outcomes.

How can proportionality be corrupted?

Proportionality can be corrupted when individuals are not viewed as equals, making fair judgment impossible. It can also be corrupted when the grounds for judgment shift away from human life, such as considering non-combatants' lives as expendable as combatants'.

What is the recommended method for developing a sense of proportionality in using force?

Developing a sense of proportionality and appropriateness in the use of force is best achieved through practical experience and training, such as ECQC, Jiu-Jitsu, or force-on-force exercises, rather than solely through abstract philosophical analysis.

What is the danger of unchecked utility in conflict?

Unchecked utility can lead to a 'might makes right' mentality, where the focus is solely on achieving the desired outcome regardless of the morality of the actions taken. This can justify extreme measures like eradication.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from REDACTED Culture Cast

View all →