CHECK: act and rule utilitarianism:

Who are the classical utilitarians, and what were they interested in?

The classical utilitarians, Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, were interested in the social benefit of moral decision-making.

How does utilitarianism guide individual and community moral decision-making?

Utilitarianism can guide individual moral conduct or serve as a framework for community or government policy.

What is the main focus of act utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism focuses on the utility (balance of good and evil) in each individual situation.

What is the main focus of rule utilitarianism?

Rule utilitarianism establishes rules based on the utility of actions when chosen in all similar circumstances.

How do act utilitarians approach moral decision-making?

Act utilitarians evaluate each individual situation and make a judgment based on the balance of good and evil in that specific instance.

What is unique about the act utilitarian approach?

It is individualistic, dynamic, and immediate, with decisions made case by case without relying on overarching rules.

What drives the judgment in act utilitarianism?

The utility of a specific option in a given moral dilemma is the sole determinant of the decision.

How does act utilitarianism view rule-based systems like religious rules?

It traditionally rejects rule-based systems, focusing instead on the human drive toward well-being and away from harm.

What metaphor explains the adaptability of act utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism avoids rigid rules, emphasizing a flexible approach responsive to individual situations.

What example highlights the potential criticism of act utilitarianism?

An adulterer might justify lying to his wife for personal pleasure, which can appear hedonistic and undermine democratic intentions.

How does act utilitarianism justify actions like lying in certain cases?

It argues that lying can be justified if it maximizes utility, such as lying to a Nazi about hiding a Jewish family.

What is the primary goal of rule utilitarianism?

Rule utilitarianism seeks to create rules that generally maximize the greatest good for the greatest number.

How does rule utilitarianism address long-term utility?

It considers the general consequences of actions when repeated, prioritizing long-term benefits over immediate outcomes.

What is an example of rule utilitarianism in practice?

Following the Highway Code ensures fewer accidents overall, even if individual adherence causes delays.

How does rule utilitarianism approach lying or infidelity?

It promotes honesty and fidelity, as these behaviors generally lead to greater happiness and trust.

How does rule utilitarianism address qualitative and quantitative happiness?

It can take either approach, focusing on questions of trust, justice, and equality, as Mill emphasized.

How do rule utilitarians handle justice in some situations?

They accept that some harm may occur in the short term, such as riots against oppression, for greater long-term happiness.

Why are promise-keeping and trust important to rule utilitarianism?

Trust and promises enable relationships and businesses to flourish, creating long-term well-being.

What advantage does rule utilitarianism offer in moral decision-making?

It provides a clear guide through established rules, making moral conduct more straightforward without constant recalculation.

How does rule utilitarianism handle special relationships, like between parents and children?

It allows for rules recognizing special circumstances, prioritizing care for children, the elderly, and the sick, which act utilitarianism struggles to justify.