Philosophy: Hedonism and Relativism

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Questions and Answers

How would a rule utilitarian justify the use of disinformation in government actions?

It is justified only when the end goal is noble.

It must be avoided to maintain public trust.

It is permissible if it leads to the greatest overall happiness. (correct)

It is allowed as it improves government efficiency.

What is a potential consequence of the principle 'all life must be preserved whenever possible' regarding capital punishment?

It suggests capital punishment should be abolished. (correct)

It implies life can be forfeited for retribution.

It accepts capital punishment in cases of heinous crimes.

It supports capital punishment to deter crime.

In terms of utilitarianism, how might gambling be viewed?

As generally harmful and should be banned.

As a personal choice that maximizes individual's happiness. (correct)

As beneficial because it raises government tax revenue.

As morally wrong due to its addictive nature.

What is a key consideration regarding the manufacture and sale of pornographic materials under utilitarianism?

It is permissible if it leads to greater overall satisfaction. Signup and view all the answers

How might a utilitarian approach the issue of abortion?

It can be justified if it leads to better outcomes for the mother and family. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence is presented to argue that happiness is desirable?

Each person desires their own happiness. Signup and view all the answers

How does virtue relate to happiness according to the content?

Virtue is an essential element that contributes to happiness. Signup and view all the answers

What unique contribution did Henry Sidgwick make to the concept of utilitarianism?

He integrated utilitarianism with rational intuitionism. Signup and view all the answers

What does ideal utilitarianism emphasize as its focal point?

Producing the ideal good for all, including but not restricted to pleasure. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes act utilitarianism from rule utilitarianism?

Act utilitarianism focuses on the greatest utility of specific actions, while rule utilitarianism focuses on the utility of rules. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does Sidgwick identify regarding utilitarianism as an ethical principle?

Utilitarianism lacks unassailable proofs to support its principles. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates the approach of act utilitarianism?

Considering the consequences of each act for maximizing overall well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main critique of the greatest happiness principle as mentioned in the content?

It has no empirical induction to support it as an ethical baseline. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about pleasure in the context of its selection?

Pleasures are sometimes passed over for greater comfort. Signup and view all the answers

What view does Hobbes hold regarding good and evil?

Good and evil are determined by what individuals desire or detest. Signup and view all the answers

How does Hobbes view the formation of the political state?

As necessary for individual peace and safety. Signup and view all the answers

What principle does Bentham use to underpin his hedonistic philosophy?

The governance of pain and pleasure as sovereign masters. Signup and view all the answers

How does Bentham's view of hedonism differ from Hobbes' egoistic approach?

Bentham incorporates collective happiness rather than just individual pleasure. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of pleasure is highlighted when discussing freedom from pain?

Not all pleasures contribute to overall well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hobbes suggest about tranquility in relation to the human experience?

Tranquility is an unrealistic goal in a competitive world. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is the essence of the principle of utility as per Bentham?

It recognizes subjection to pain and pleasure as foundational. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant aim of utilitarianism as discussed?

To enhance the appreciation of higher pleasures through education Signup and view all the answers

How does utilitarianism relate to virtue?

It requires the practice of community virtues. Signup and view all the answers

What does utilitarianism prohibit regarding beliefs?

The forceful imposition of beliefs on others Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a criticism of utilitarianism mentioned?

It lacks a framework for determining common pleasure effectively. Signup and view all the answers

What is stated about the consequences of actions in utilitarianism?

Actions may have long-term consequences that extend indefinitely into the future. Signup and view all the answers

What does egoistic hedonism propose regarding pleasure?

It argues that pleasure is the highest good for individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following perspectives is consistent with utilitarianism's principle of utility?

Public welfare should be prioritized over immediate desires. Signup and view all the answers

How does utilitarianism address the future impact of actions?

It emphasizes the indefinite long-term consequences of current decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What primarily constitutes an act as a moral act, according to the content?

Acts of duty, generosity, or self-sacrifice Signup and view all the answers

What does hedonism imply about an individual's cooperation with society?

Cooperation is justified only when one can share in societal benefits Signup and view all the answers

What is described as a logical flaw in hedonism?

It considers pleasure as the only good without exceptions Signup and view all the answers

How does utilitarianism extend the concept of hedonism?

By considering group pleasure as a measure of morality Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is the danger of living a moral life solely for pleasure?

It transforms moral actions into hedonism Signup and view all the answers

What principle does Jeremy Bentham support in the context of utilitarianism?

The general happiness is crucial for assessing personal actions Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of love do hedonists overlook according to the content?

The self-regarding aspect of love is the only valid form Signup and view all the answers

What would a true hedonist's perspective on good and evil be?

Actions must be judged only on their potential for pleasure Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the hedonistic paradox?

Intense focus on pleasure can lead to its disappearance. Signup and view all the answers

Why is pleasure not considered a primary purpose in performing activities?

Activities primarily serve other beneficial purposes. Signup and view all the answers

How does electrical stimulation of the brain relate to pleasure?

It can produce pleasure without any activity. Signup and view all the answers

What role does pleasure play in natural functions according to the analysis?

It compels people to perform essential activities. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following examples illustrates the relationship between pleasure and activity?

Hunger drives people to eat because food is enjoyable. Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone choose to avoid electrical brain stimulation for pleasure?

It lacks normal life activities. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about pleasure?

Pleasure can be a primary goal. Signup and view all the answers

How do the psychological perspectives view the faculty of pleasure?

It is not a special faculty but rather an accompaniment of actions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Learning Outcomes

Students should be able to define different kinds of relativism.
Students should be able to distinguish between hedonism and utilitarianism.
Students should be able to apply the concept of subjective morality.

Pleasure

Pleasure can be defined in two ways:
- Sensations and feelings resulting from bodily stimulation, opposite to bodily pain.
- Experiences enjoyed, liked, or found satisfying, opposite to painful or unenjoyable experiences.
Both definitions involve the person apprehending pleasure as worthy of desire.

The Problem of the Good Life

Achieving a truly satisfying life is difficult, even in ideal circumstances, due to the possibility of misuse of opportunities.
Philosophy aims to help us avoid unhappiness and achieve a more satisfying life.
Pleasure is considered a possible candidate for a satisfying life.

Hedonism

An ethical theory that posits pleasure as the highest good.
Different forms of hedonism exist:
- Egoistic hedonism: Focuses on personal pleasure.
- Altruistic hedonism (utilitarianism): Seeks the pleasure of all people.
Hedonism has persisted throughout history and is lived by many regardless of conscious philosophy.
Aristippus and Epicurus, early proponents connected pleasure with physical sensations,
Epicurus refined this to include a lasting peace of mind, not intense pleasure.
Bentham expanded on this including pleasures of intellect and emotion.
Utilitarianism, championed by Mill, emphasized the greatest happiness for the greatest number.
Pleasure is considered a component of a good life but not the only element.

Utilitarianism

Focuses on the greatest happiness for the greatest number.
It considers consequences of actions, not just individual pleasure, in evaluating morality.
Bentham viewed pleasure and pain as governing human activity.
Mill expanded on Bentham, recognizing different qualities of pleasures.
Critics argue that utilitarianism may lead to sacrificing individual well-being for the greater good.
Utilitarianism is a response to egoistic hedonism but can be considered a more complex form of hedonism focused on the group rather than the individual.

The Place of Pleasure in the Good Life

Pleasure is essential to human experience.
An extreme focus on pleasure (hedonism) can be problematic.
An extreme rejection of pleasure (puritanical spirit) is also problematic.
A balanced approach is necessary for a fulfilling life.

Critique of Hedonism and Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism's focus on consequences may lead to morally problematic actions, such as sacrificing individuals for the greater good.
The subjective value of pleasure for the individual can be overlooked in utilitarian calculations.
The hedonistic emphasis on pleasure as the ultimate good neglects other important aspects of human life, such as virtue and duty.

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Description

Explore the foundational concepts of hedonism and relativism in ethics. This quiz will help you understand the definitions of pleasure, the complexities of a satisfying life, and how subjective morality plays a role in ethical theory. Test your knowledge on distinguishing between different kinds of relativism and the principles of utilitarianism.