Bentham’s Act utilitarianism Flashcards
What are the two fundamental factors governing human behavior and morality according to Jeremy Bentham’s utilitarianism?
Pleasure and pain are the two fundamental factors governing human behavior and morality according to Bentham’s utilitarianism
Define Bentham’s Principle of Utility.
Bentham’s Principle of Utility states that an action is morally right if it produces the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of people.
Which ethical theory does Bentham’s utilitarianism belong to?
Bentham’s utilitarianism belongs to the consequentialist ethical theory, where the morality of actions is determined by their consequences.
How does Bentham’s utilitarianism prioritize actions?
Bentham’s utilitarianism prioritizes actions based on their ability to maximize overall happiness or pleasure for the greatest number of people.
What is the central tenet of Bentham’s utilitarianism?
The central tenet of Bentham’s utilitarianism is that moral actions should aim to maximize pleasure and minimize pain, as pleasure and pain are the ultimate determinants of what is good or bad.
What does Bentham’s utilitarianism prioritize in moral decision-making?
Bentham’s utilitarianism prioritizes maximizing overall happiness or pleasure and minimizing pain in moral decision-making.
What distinguishes Bentham’s utilitarianism from other ethical theories?
Bentham’s utilitarianism is distinguished by its consequentialist approach, which focuses on the outcomes or consequences of actions rather than their intrinsic qualities.
How does Bentham justify his claim that pleasure and pain are the ultimate determinants of morality?
Bentham argues that pleasure and pain are inherent to human nature, and thus, moral actions should aim to maximize pleasure and minimize pain to align with human nature.
What is Bentham’s stance on human nature within the context of utilitarianism?
Bentham views humans as naturally inclined to seek pleasure and avoid pain, which forms the basis for his utilitarian principle of maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering.
