Introduction
Utilitarianism distinguishes right from wrong based on the outcomes. As such, it is a representation of consequentialism. The locus of utilitarianism is choosing a course of action that produces optimal good for the largest number (Chen, 2021). Keeping the previous argument in mind, the ethical analysis of the Bakun Dam Project, which begun to mitigate the rising electricity demand, measures its advantages against disadvantages.
Pros of the Project
The Bakun Project began to mitigate the rising electricity demand. Most of the electricity demands was in Peninsula Malaysia and not East Malaysia.
Cons of the Project
- The project’s location implies minimal impact because it does not service the intended beneficiaries.
- Another point regarding the project’s lack of feasibility is the dam’s flooding, which started in 2010. Projections indicate that the flooding will place about seven hundred square kilometres of land under water.
- To make matters worse, the flooding threatens the ecological sanctity of the area because it will cover part of a rainforest with high rates of animal and plant endemism.
- The project had a damaging economic impact of the dam’s construction on the livelihoods of the indigenous communities that live in the area that would flood. 9, 000 residents had to be relocate and the government has not compensated some families to date.
Conclusion
The dam’s construction contravened sustainable development goals to create green projects. The project led to the destruction of over 230 square kilometres of virgin tropical rainforest. The project has negative health impact due to the flooding; the spillage aggravates the risk of illnesses containing water borne vectors for surrounding residents. In conclusion, the negative outcomes of the project reveal blasting consequences for many people. In this regard, the decision to start the project was not good.
Reference
Chen, L. (2021). A Critical Review of Dual Process Theories and How the Lack of Human Empathy Influences Utilitarian Decision-making.