this post was submitted on 09 Jul 2024
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Suffering is inherent to the human condition. Is it okay to undertake actions that cause people suffering?
What makes something okay? Who decides what is okay and what is not okay?
I'm taking an utilitarian approach. Suffering should be avoided, and happiness maximized. Bringing another being into existence guarantees suffering, with a chance of creating happiness. That is not a gamble you should take on behalf of another being.
Is the potential (or guarantee) for suffering greater than the potential for joy? You also have to account for the joy of the person and the joy they create. I believe the potential for expected joy exceeds the guarantee of suffering.