PHI 180 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Jeremy Bentham, Moral Agency
26 Apr 2019
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Dudley expected his choice to be understood-- under the circumstances, in strict utilitarian terms. Might weaken the norm against murder in society. Might encourage people to take the law into their own hands. Would put all future cabin boys at greater risk. Taking a life without consent is wrong. We have duties to others, regardless of consequences. Grounded his moral system on the principle of utility (utility=good=pleasure=happiness) Based on a fundamental fact of existence: All sentient creatures pursue pleasure and seek to avoid pain. If you try to argue against this principle of utility , you"ll find yourself using it. Choose the action that produces the greatest good the greatest number . Pain and pleasure are our sovereign masters . The basis for both our moral and political lives. Individuals should choose actions that produce the greatest good for the greatest number. Governments should enact laws that will maximize the happiness of the community .
