Utilitarianism Flashcards
Define Utilitarian Ethics.
It focuses on Outcomes and Consequences. It is a Normative Ethics Approach, which overturns the ‘Classical’ Tradition that ethics is based on human rationality.
Who fathered Utilitarianism?
Jeremy Bentham.
What is Utilitarian Ethics also known as by Philosophy?
Consequentialist.
What phrase is associated with Utilitarianism?
Greatest good for the greatest number.
In what way does Utilitarian Ethics differ from the classic ethics tradition?
Utilitarianism proposes that ethics can be motivated by emotions/feelings (relative) and not solely by reason (rationality).
Why is Utilitarianism regarded as a Consequentialist Ethic?
Because the view counsels that in deciding whether an act is morally ‘good’, we should look to see if it has good consequences for ALL.
Define Dualism.
It allows for both Rational and Emotional natures to influence and inform actions/decisions.
What does Universalism suggest?
That we all feel the same.
What is the Principle of Utility?
One must always do that which will have the most Utility for all concerned.
Define Utility.
Good = Common Good:
Usefulness
Pleasure > Pain
Flourishing and Well-being
What implication does Common Good have?
Egalitarian overtones.
Outline what is meant by ‘the common good.’
Define Egalitarianism.
Believing/based on the assumption that all people are equal and the whatever is ‘good’ is so for everyone.
Define Act Utilitarianism.
Judge the moral worth of an action according to how well it generates the greatest good for the greatest number.
Considered to be an extreme position and of little value.
Define Rule Utilitarianism.
Judge the moral worth of an action by how well it conforms to moral rules that have been accepted according to the Utilitarian standard.
Considered to be a limited position that has value.
Describe the difference between Act & Rule Utilitarianism.
Act focuses on the consequence of that single action
While Rule focuses on the consequences of following a rule of conduct.
What question best sums up the difference between Act and Rule Utilitarianism?
What if everyone did that?
What is the Utilitarian Stance regarding Morals and Ethics?
If Morals has to do with actions and Ethics guide our actions, then Ethics must have to do with feelings and emotions because, whether good or bad, they motivate/guide our actions.
What does Utilitarianism say about Emotions?
It proposes that feelings should not be disregarded, but recognised. ALL life has feelings.
It also recognises that feelings are not confined to just the species of Homo sapiens - animals have feelings too.
What is the Cost Benefit Analysis?
It is a form of Utilitarianism and often disregards feelings.
Measures the Benefit of an action against its ascociated Costs.
Use an example to describe Cost Benefit Analysis.
Humans working on a production line.
In order to achieve greatest good (profit) must make the people work hard and long.
List the x2 Weaknesses of Utilitarianism.
- It’s difficult to ‘know’ what the consequences for actions will be.
- Utility of the individual can be disregarded/marginalised since it only looks ash the greatest good for the greatest number.
What are x4 questions that highlight the Weaknesses in Utilitarianism?
- Who decides?
- What measures are used?
- How is assessment made?
- Does EVERYONE feel/experience pain in the same may/measure?
List the x5 Strengths of Utilitarianism.
- Maximises Well-being
- Extends to ALL Living Beings
- Accounts for Bigger Picture
- Compatible with Cost Benefit Analysis
- Pragmatic Approach - not just theoretical (Pragmatic - deals with things sensibly and realistically based on practical considerations)
BMW CAP
Explain how triage can be seen as a form of Utilitarianism.
Can government policy-making be seen to incorporate Utilitarianism?
Explain how dualism and universalism are important within the Utilitarian tradition.
Can animal experimentation be seen to be supported by the Utilitarian stance?