Derek Parfit Flashcards
Be capable of explaining what “the repugnant conclusion” is
The “repugnant conclusion” is an idea by Derek Parfit in moral philosophy. It suggests that a very large population with lives that are “barely worth living” could be considered better than a smaller population with very high-quality lives if we evaluate things purely in terms of total happiness or well-being. This challenges our common sense because it suggests that having fewer people with great lives might not be better than having more people with average lives . It questions whether total happiness or quality of life is more important.
be prepared to briefly indicate whether or not you find it to be disagreeable.
I find the repugnant conclusion disagreeable because it values the sheer number of lives over the quality of life for individuals. The idea that a vast population living barely worthwhile lives is better than a smaller, happy population feels morally wrong. It seems unfair to prioritize quantity over the well-being and happiness of individuals. A focus on higher average quality of life prevents unnecessary suffering.
