S+W Utlitarianism (Explain points)

Question 1

S
Democratic …

Answer 1

Utilitarianism is democratic as it involves the whole community.

Question 2

S
What does it provide?

Answer 2

Provides guidelines and rules which is beneficial when making decisions.

Question 3

S
Practicality…
Include example

Answer 3

Utilitarianism provides a practical way of making decisions.
E.G. the NHS follow Bentham’s ‘greatest good for the greatest number’.

Question 4

S
Benefits of minority…

Answer 4

Utilitarianism can increase the benefits of the minority as they will be given their chance to vote on rulings.

Question 5

W
Leading to immorality…
Include example

Answer 5

Simply because an act causes the majority pleasure doesn’t mean the action is morally correct.
E.G. A group of criminals will receive the ‘greatest good for the greatest number’ but due to immoral actions.

Question 6

W
Impossibility of prediction…

Answer 6

It is impossible to predict the future so we cannot be sure of the consequences of actions (could maximise pain).

Question 7

W
Subjective

Answer 7

Happiness and pleasure of individuals is subjective and impossible to define.

Question 8

W
Impracticality
(Bentham)

Answer 8

It is impractical to suggest individuals have time to deliberate and apply the hedonic calculus to every situation.