The reason(s) for studying public policy is (are):
A. Theoretical
B. Practical
C. Political
D. All above
A tavern sold liquor to a drunken patron who was subsequently involved as a driver in a fatal motor vehicle collision. The plaintiff was rendered a quadriplegic as a result. Prevailing precedent in this jurisdiction provides that the tavern does not owe a duty to third party motorists to guard against injuries caused by patrons who become intoxicated at their place of business. If the plaintiff appeals the trial court's granting of the defendant tavern's motion to dismiss, could the state supreme court overrule the precedent and recognize the tavern's responsibility and liability for the plaintiff's injuries?
a. Yes, but the new precedent can only be applied to subsequent cases.
b. Yes, if the precedent is no longer appropriate because of changing economic, political, and social conditions.
c. No, not unless the legislature changes the precedent by statute.
d. No, the doctrine of stare decisis prevents precedents from being overruled without exception.
Utilitarianism asserts that an action is ethical if
a. the actor follows a basic rule as a guide to action.
b. a majority of people support it.
c. it results in the greatest good for the greatest number of persons.
d. it is sanctioned by governmental authority.
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