Module II Ethics

Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism

A moral theory that aims to maximize happiness and minimize unhappiness for the greatest number of people.

Greatest Happiness

The goal of utilitarianism, which seeks to achieve the greatest overall well-being and pleasure in society.

Utility

A measure of the usefulness or benefit of an action, often used to determine the moral value of that action in utilitarianism

Pleasure

The positive emotional state or happiness that utilitarianism seeks to promote.

Moral Right

A valid claim or entitlement in society, justified by utility and contributing to the general happiness.

Higher Pressure

Pleasures that are considered more valuable and preferable in utilitarianism, often determined by the majority's experience of both lower and higher pleasures.

Greatest Number

The principle in utilitarianism that focuses on achieving the greatest good for the largest group of people.

Happiness

A central concept in utilitarianism, representing positive well-being and contentment.

Base Pleasure

Pleasures that are considered less valuable in utilitarianism, often associated with physical or immediate gratification.

Intent

The motivation or purpose behind an action, which utilitarianism does not solely rely on to determine moral value.

Rights

Valid claims on society that are justified by their contribution to general happiness in utilitarianism

Legal Rights

Rights that are recognized and protected by the legal system to ensure fairness and justice in society

Justice

Respecting and upholding rights and fairness in society, in line with utilitarian principles.

David Hume (1711-1776)

Utilitarianism, a significant moral theory, originated from him in mid-18th century

Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) and John Stuart Mill (1806-1873).

received its name and clearest statement from

Mill's essay "Utilitarianism," published in 1861

remains a widely taught exposition of the doctrine.

The Principle of Utility

is at the core of utilitarian philosophy, making it a consequentialist theory.

Principle of Utility

It centers on pleasure and pain, guiding our actions based on the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain.

Pleasure

is considered good if it produces more happiness than unhappiness, equating happiness with pleasure.

Utilitarianism

equates happiness with pleasure and focuses on actions that maximize happiness and minimize unhappiness for the greatest number

Principle of the Greatest Number

It is not about individual pleasures but considers the collective well-being of those affected by an action.

doesn’t endorse selfish acts; it values sacrifices that lead to greater overall happiness

utilitarianism

Moral value in utilitarianism

solely based on the consequences of actions, not the intentions behind them.

Utilitarianism raises questions about

about sacrificing individual rights for the benefit of the majority.

John Stuart Mill believes

that rights are like valid claims people have in society, and they are justified because they help make everyone happy. Rights, such as free speech or a fair legal process, are important because they protect our interests and make society better overall.

educating people and influencing them in positive ways can