UtilitarianismThe philosophy of utilitarianism can trace its origins back thousands of years but it's most famously associated with the 18th century English philosopher Jeremy Bentham. The basic principle of utilitarianism is that ones actions should be guided towards outcomes that create the greatest good for the greatest numbers of people. This simple guiding principle creates a host of challenging moral dilemmas. John Stuart Mill's "Utilitarianism" is the classic exposition of this simple and yet complex philosophy. |
Contents
General Remarks | 1 |
Of the Ultimate Sanction of the Principle | 56 |
Of what sort of Proof the Principle of Utility | 74 |
On the Connection between Justice | 89 |
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Common terms and phrases
action admitted attainable believe benefit binding force capable character claim common conduct consider consideration constitutes cultivated degree derives deserve desire happiness dictates of justice distinction duty Epicurean Epicurus equally ethics evil excitement existence expediency external sanctions fact fellow creatures give Greatest Happiness Principle habit Herbert Spencer human nature hurt idea of justice impartiality imperfect individual influence injustice instinct interest mankind maxims of justice means means of happiness mind mode moral obligation moral right moralists motives natural justice necessary noble notion of justice object obligation of justice opinion origin pain particular person philosophical pleasure possible preference present principle of morals principle of utility proof punishment question rational recognise regard requires right and wrong rule selfish sentiment of justice social Social Statics society solely sources Stoic superior supposed sympathy theory things tion transcendental unjust utilitarian doctrine utilitarian ethics utilitarian morality utilitarian standard violate virtuous word