Utilitarianism and Morality essays

Utilitarianism and Morality essays Utilitarianism is often defined as the greatest good for the most people. It is also considered to be the greatest good with the least amount of pain. John Stuart Mill was amongst the few who thought this way. His utilitarian ideas advocate a hedonistic ethical theory. In this theory, he believes human beings, or agents, actions should be contingent upon the consequences. The end of all human conduct should be happiness. Mill defines utility as pleasure itself, together with exemption from pain... (Philosophical Classics, 949). Mill suggests that utility should be the foundation of morality. He says, the foundations of morals Utility or the Greatest Happiness Principle holds that actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness, wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness. By happiness is intended pleasure, and the absence of pain; by unhappiness, pain, and the privation of pleasure. (Philosophical Classics, 949). Peoples moral actions should increase the overall amount of utility. This would limit people from pursing personal pleasures at the expense of others. However, this type of philosophy can eventually lead to serious social problems. The absence of natural rights in Mills ideas can result in unethical choices and social turmoil. Mill believes that we should assess the consequences of our actions. In doing so, we are not supposed to include our motives, characters, or traits when making a decision. We are to simply choose the path which yields the most overall pleasure. Happiness comes from both intellectual and sensual pleasures according to Mill. He argues that there are different kinds of pleasures, and It is quite compatible with the principle of utility to recognize the fact, that some kinds of pleasure are more desirable and more valuable than others. (Philosophical Classics, 950). Higher&qu...