Bentham’s felicific/hedonic calculus Flashcards
What is the purpose of the hedonic calculus in Bentham’s utilitarianism?
The hedonic calculus is designed to measure the pleasurable consequences of an action, enabling individuals to determine which action will result in the greatest amount of pleasure.
What are the seven criteria included in Bentham’s hedonic calculus?
- How strong the pleasure is.
- How long the pleasure lasts.
- How likely it is that the pleasure will occur.
- How far away in time the pleasure will occur.
- The likelihood that the pleasure will lead to further pleasure.
- The likelihood that the pleasure will be followed by pain.
- How many people are affected.
Why is it necessary to measure pleasure according to Bentham’s utilitarianism?
Measuring pleasure is necessary to determine which action will result in the greatest overall happiness, as maximizing pleasure is the goal of ethical action in Bentham’s utilitarianism.
What role does the hedonic calculus play in moral decision-making according to Bentham?
The hedonic calculus serves as a tool for individuals to calculate and compare the potential pleasurable consequences of different actions, enabling them to make ethical decisions that maximize overall happiness.
