utilitarianism Flashcards
what is utilitarianism?
moral theory that focuses on the results or consequences of our actions (does not focus on intentions)
what did Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart mill say about utilitarianism?
they believed that actions should be measured in terms of happiness or pleasure that they produce. we have to act to produce the greatest good for the greatest number
what is the principle of utility?
Bentham called this principal this name as the rightness or wrongness of an action should be judged based on its utility or usefulness in promoting happiness or pleasure and reducing suffering or pain.
what did mill call the principle of utility?
greatest happiness principle
what is act utilitarianism?
could be seen as classic utilitarianism, choosing an action that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people
what is rule utilitarianism?
we have to live by rules that are likely to lead to the greatest good for the greatest number. thinking more long term, following rules that will maximize utility in the long run. has been seen as inconsistent. ask yourself what is everyone follows this rule
what are the four factors?
intensity, duration, widespread distribution and fruitfulness
what is intensity?
more intense the pleasure is and the less intense the pain is, the better the action
what is duration?
actions that produce longer lasting pleasure or shorter lasting pain are seen as better
what is widespread distribution?
actions that benefit a larger number of people are considered better
what is fruitfulness?
actions that lead to the production of more happiness and pleasure are better
what is the egalitarian ethical theory?
everyone is equal, there is a sense of impartiality, do not discriminate
what are some of the criticisms?
no rest problem–> there is no time for someone to enjoy their own pursuits
2) the theory allows you to use others as means to an end
3) conflicts with justice
4) asks a lot out of us
5) unhappiness does not necessarily equal pain
what are the positives?
good regarding criminal justice and legal reforms
what is hedonic calculus (BENTHAM )
quantifies happiness, helps to determine the total amount of hapiness and looks at the four factors
what did Bentham and mill disagree about ?
argued about the nature of happiness and how it should be measured. Bentham said that happiness carries only in quantity (look at four factors). mill said that happiness varies in terms of quantity and quality and that there are lower and higher pleasures (higher ones are better and more fulfilling)
what are the three main components of utilitarniasm?
1) impartiality–> everyone is equal in every moral decision
2) human welfare–> acting for the well being of others
3) consequences –> looks at consequences of all of our actions
what is the story of John Stuart mill and the connection to this topic?
his dad James mill made his sons life an experiment where he was testing nature vs nurture. he made his son read books instead of socializing and playing with toys. John grew up with no social skills and did not reach his full potential. the story shows the emphasis of flourishing and we should try and be our best self
