Is It Fair for Voters

Is it fair for voters to be required to present a valid ID if they want to vote in a national election? Be sure you clearly define the ethical issue.

It is an absolute fairness for voters to present a valid ID if they want to vote in a national election. This prevents people from voting twice and other peoples identity to vote. There are a few States in America with laws requiring voters to show some form of identification at the polls. Some States are also lenient in showing ID during elections. However increasing requirements for identification is a way to prevent in-person voter impersonation and therefore increase confidence in fairness throughout the election process.

The major ethical issues that are in question in this case study, is that it causes fraud when no identification is required during voting. People in various States claim the number of actual voter fraud instances is statistically insignificant, and that concern is just being used as justification to deprive majority of people  and minority voters who are unlikely to have government issued IDs, particularly photo IDs to vote.

No absolute law is violated if a person needs to show his identity to vote, however if they are unable to prove their identity when casting polls then an absolute is broken. When at the airport, a person needs to show his ID in order to get the pass to travel. When buying alcohol, a person needs to show his identification in order to get his purchase likewise people must be able to prove their identity during elections to ensure fairness.

It cannot be proven if it is against the law to vote without an identification, however, it is logical a person shows his identification during elections. It is an easier way to prevent double voting by individuals.

According to Kant, it is a duty to always do the right thing not for the result but because it is the right thing to do. Without an identity, should you rig an election because you want a particular party to win? Is the reason behind your thoughts result centered? Or is it right for you to prove your identity and cast your vote. If a person does not have an valid ID and opts to vote irrespective of the outcome, then it means people are worth nothing and have no value. Everyone should be given the same opportunity when casting vote by showing their identity to prevent fraudulent acts and double voting within States. From a consequentialist perspective, looking at the end result of an action right or wrong? If caught with another person's ID, would I be prosecuted or not? What effects would it have on me? People should not be shortsightedness in regards to the wrong they do but look at it from a broader perspective as in, if elections is not rigged, then the winner of the polls is simply the voice of the people.