Utilitarianism

• What is the main principle of Utilitarianism?

  The greatest happiness for the greatest number
• What type of ethical theory is Utilitarianism?

  It is a teleological and consequentialist theory
• Who began the idea of Utilitarianism?

  Jeremy Bentham
• What does the Principle of Utility emphasize?

  The usefulness of the results of actions
• How is an act judged in Utilitarianism?

  By its consequences for the majority
• What is defined as good in Utilitarianism?

  Pleasure or happiness
• What is the Hedonic Calculus used for?

  To calculate the best possible consequences
• What are the seven elements of the Hedonic Calculus?

  1. Intensity of pleasure
  2. Duration of pleasure
  3. Certainty of pleasure
  4. Remoteness of pleasure
  5. Chance of succession of pleasures
  6. Purity of pleasure
  7. Extent of pleasure
• What is Act Utilitarianism focused on?

  Consequences of individual actions
• What is a key weakness of Act Utilitarianism?

  Difficulty in predicting consequences
• How does Mill's approach differ from Bentham's?

  Mill focuses on quality of pleasure
• What is the Greatest Happiness Principle?

  Actions are right if they promote happiness
• How does Mill view human pleasures compared to animal pleasures?

  Humans can experience higher pleasures
• What does Mill argue about the fulfillment of higher ideals?

  It contributes to true happiness
• What is Rule Utilitarianism?

  Utilitarianism with basic rules for society
• What is a weakness of Rule Utilitarianism?

  It can become deontological
• What does Preference Utilitarianism consider?

  Individual preferences in moral actions
• What does R.M. Hare emphasize in moral decisions?

  Considering preferences of others
• What is Peter Singer's viewpoint on preferences?

  All preferences should be weighed equally
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of Utilitarianism?

  Strengths:

  • Straightforward maximization of pleasure
  • Relatable to real-world actions
  • Natural judgment via consequences
  • Preference Utilitarianism promotes empathy

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Difficult to predict consequences
  • Ignores motives and intentions
  • Overlooks personal commitments
  • Can advocate injustice
  • Majority can overpower minority