Commission vs. Omission

Attribute	Commission	Omission
Definition	Act of doing something	Act of not doing something
Consequences	Results in something happening	Results in something not happening
Responsibility	Active involvement	Passive inaction
Intentionality	Deliberate action	Unintentional inaction

Introduction

Commission and omission are two terms that are often used in ethical discussions, particularly in the context of moral responsibility. While both involve actions or decisions, they differ in their nature and consequences. In this article, we will explore the attributes of commission and omission, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Commission

Commission refers to the act of doing something, taking action, or carrying out a specific task. In ethical terms, commission involves actively engaging in an action that may have moral implications. For example, if a doctor prescribes a treatment that harms the patient, it would be considered a commission of harm. Commission is often associated with accountability and responsibility, as individuals are held accountable for the consequences of their actions.

• Commission involves taking action.
• It can have moral implications.
• Individuals are held accountable for their actions.

Omission

Omission, on the other hand, refers to the act of not doing something, neglecting to take action, or failing to fulfill a duty or obligation. In ethical terms, omission involves the failure to prevent harm or address a situation that requires intervention. For example, if a bystander witnesses a crime but does not report it to the authorities, it would be considered an omission of responsibility. Omission is often associated with negligence and indifference, as individuals are criticized for their inaction.

• Omission involves not taking action.
• It can lead to harm or negative consequences.
• Individuals may be criticized for their inaction.

Similarities

While commission and omission are distinct concepts, they share some similarities in terms of their ethical implications. Both involve decisions or actions that can have moral consequences. Whether one chooses to act or refrain from acting, there are ethical considerations at play. Additionally, both commission and omission can result in harm or negative outcomes, depending on the circumstances.

• Both involve ethical decisions.
• They can have moral consequences.
• Both can lead to harm or negative outcomes.

Differences

Despite their similarities, commission and omission differ in significant ways. Commission involves active engagement and taking responsibility for one's actions, while omission involves passivity and neglecting one's duties. Commission is often seen as more direct and intentional, while omission is viewed as more indirect and unintentional. The consequences of commission are often more immediate and visible, while the consequences of omission may be delayed or less apparent.

• Commission is active, while omission is passive.
• Commission is more direct and intentional.
• Omission is more indirect and unintentional.

Implications

The distinction between commission and omission has important implications for moral philosophy and ethical decision-making. Understanding the differences between the two concepts can help individuals reflect on their actions and take responsibility for their choices. By recognizing the potential consequences of both commission and omission, individuals can strive to make more informed and ethical decisions in their personal and professional lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, commission and omission are two ethical concepts that play a significant role in discussions of moral responsibility. While commission involves taking action and being held accountable for one's choices, omission involves neglecting to act and facing criticism for inaction. By examining the attributes of commission and omission, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ethical implications of our decisions and strive to act in a more responsible and ethical manner.