Against : Utilitarianism Flashcards
1
Q
Against Bentham
A
although it’s easily applicible (HC).
Not applicable in all situations, eg. sadistic guards
Some things intrinsically wrong
John Rawls - it is too easy for UT to set aside human rights for a greater good
2
Q
Against Mill
A
although qualitative (overcomes sadistic guards)
still the tyranny of the majority
eg. homosexuals
this confuses what is popular with what is right
3
Q
Against Singer
A
although pain is an agreed upon & clear concept
can’t predict the future, dont know if pain will come about
eg. Roald Dahl ‘Genesis and Catastrophe’, “You’ll be alright now Mrs Hitler”
4
Q
Conclusion
A
‘There are ideals and concepts which should not be sacrificed even if they can be justified on Utilitarian grounds’ - Anne Maclean
