PHI 2397 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Consequentialism, Kantian Ethics, Epicurus
12 Oct 2014
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Consequentialism: you decide what you should do, by considering the possible consequences, oppose to what you believe you should. Similarity between the two is to determine the right thing to do by the consequences and their ultimate goal is to find happiness and meaningful existence. Self- interest: enlightenment 17th and 18th centuries. John stuart mill 19th century english: humans have higher pleasures- intellectual pleasure. Is it better to be a happy pig, or an unhappy human? . Quality of pleasure is more important than just the quantity of pleasure. As long as you aren"t violating the utilitarian principle. Jeremy bentham 18th century english: avoid pain/ seek pleasure. Morality is based on the pain/ pleasure principle. Good greater good must be the good for the greatest number. As so as to create the greatest good (happiness) for the greatest number. Utilitarianism: what makes you happy (good) must be useful.
