Utilitarianism - Bentham's theory of utility Flashcards
what does utilitarianism work out
how useful an action is based upon assessing its end result
what is the most useful end seen as
that which brings the maximum levels of happiness or pleasure.
therefore what are seen as the best course of action
actions that produce the most happiness for all
what is the way of assessing which course of action is best to take known as
the greatest happiness principle
how is utilitarianism a teleological theory
because it is concerned about the outcome or end of an action
how can the greatest happiness principle be misleading
because the greatest happiness did not necessarily involve the greatest number of people. In other words it is what is right that maximises happiness
what does hedonism emphasise
the only thing that is right is pleasure
what is the guiding principle underpinning utilitarianism (a teleological theory)
principle of utility - states that people should act to bring about a balance of good over evil
what did principle of utility measure according to Bentham
measured whether or not an act would bring pleasure or pain
what is the principle of utility based in
joseph priestley - “the greatest happiness of the greatest number.”
