Ethical dilemma: What makes life worth living? - Douglas MacLean
571,738 Views
1,242 Questions Answered
Let’s Begin…
Life on your planet depends entirely on Nuronium for normal cognition. Unfortunately, its source has been compromised and you are now at risk of extinction. Scientists have found an alternate energy source, Polixate, but it can’t sustain cognition and would mean the loss of people's creativity. So, what shall it be: extinction or life without culture? Douglas MacLean explores this classic dilemma.
Some philosophers have argued that failing to prevent a person’s death, where it could be prevented, is the moral equivalent of killing the person. Do you agree? Give examples.
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Douglas MacLean
- Director Asparuh Petrov, Compote Collective
- Narrator Adrian Dannatt
- Music Big Banda Soundscapers
- Sound Designer Alexander Evtimov
- Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
- Producer Sazia Afrin
- Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
- Editorial Producer Dan Kwartler
- Fact-Checker Charles Wallace