The Influence of Situational Factors in Sacrificial Dilemmas on Utilitarian Moral Judgments

Abstract The standard way to test alternative descriptive theories of moral judgment is by asking subjects evaluate (amongst others) sacrificial dilemmas, where acting classifies as a utilitarian and not deontological judgment. Previous research uncovered many situational factors that alter subject’s judgments without affecting which type action utilitarianism or deontology would recommend. This literature review provides systematic analysis the experimental on influence in dilemmas. It analyses 53 articles detail reports mean effect sizes, well operationalizations, for 36 significantly Moreover, discusses how impact relates dual process theory supports view are driven controlled cognitive processes shows drivers depend valence.