Bentham's utilitarianism

why did Bentham develop this theory?

• concerned about social reform

  • created a theory to benefit oppressed lower class majority 

• sought ethical system without God

is utilitarianism teleological or deontological?

teleological

• outcome > actions

what is the principle of utility?

“an action is right if it produces the greatest good for the greatest number”

what is the hedonic calculus?

• possible to measure pleasure / pain actions will bring about

• relative, considering circumstances

  • not fixed absolutes

e.g. extent - how many people are affected; certainty - how likely pleasure will occur

what is prime consideration?

• pleasure gained from action > laws, rule

e.g. medical practise of triage

• allocation of treatment to patients

• maximise survivors