Simulated Killing – A Level Philosophy AQA Revision

Simulated killing refers to the artificial recreation of killing acts, typically within the contexts of video games, films, or other forms of media.
Common mediums of simulated killing include video games (e.g., shooter games, or war-themed games), movies, virtual reality experiences, and role-playing games.
Simulated killings can vary significantly in their realism, ranging from highly stylised and cartoon-like killings to more realistic and graphic depictions.

A significant point of contention centres around whether engaging in simulated killing desensitises individuals to real-world violence, and whether this could encourage violent behaviour in real-life.
Some argue that simulated killing can be used as a form of catharsis, allowing individuals to vent any violent tendencies in a safe, controlled environment.
Critics assert that simulating killing might be seen as trivialising the act of taking a life, undermining the value we place on human lives.

Considerations around simulated killing touch on the consequentialist moral philosophy, focusing on the potential results of actions (like potential desensitisation or increase in violent behaviour).
It also involves deontological perspectives, which consider the inherent rightness or wrongness of an action – in this case, whether the act of representing killing, irrespective of results, is ethically acceptable.
Utilitarian perspectives might evaluate whether the pleasure derived from such activities outweighs any potential societal harm.

Immanuel Kant, a prominent deontologist, would likely argue simulated killing is inherently wrong as it involves treating human beings merely as means to our ends (even if those humans are simulated).
In contrast, John Stuart Mill, a consequentialist, might focus on the outcome of the act: if simulated killing leads to greater happiness overall (by providing entertainment, stress-relief, etc), it could be seen as morally acceptable.
Some virtue ethicists, following Aristotle’s emphasis on character, might argue that engaging in simulated killing promotes vices, like aggression or insensitivity.

Discussions about simulated killing impact media regulation policies, influencing age-ratings and content warnings for games and movies.
These debates also play a part in shaping societal attitudes towards violence, influencing our consumption choices in terms of the media we interact with.