Utilitarianism and Jeremy Bentham
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Questions and Answers

What is the universal principle of modern utilitarianism?

  • Personal satisfaction defines moral correctness
  • The majority rule determines right and wrong
  • Individual happiness is the ultimate goal
  • The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the measure of right and wrong (correct)

    • According to Bentham, what are the two sovereign masters guiding morality?

  • Good and evil
  • Pleasure and pain (correct)
  • Intentions and actions
  • Rights and obligations

    • How does utilitarianism define happiness?

  • As social status
  • As the balance of pleasure over pain (correct)
  • As material wealth
  • As individual satisfaction

    • What does utilitarianism use as tools to evaluate right and wrong?

    <p>Pleasure and pain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism view individual happiness in comparison to collective happiness?

    <p>Individual happiness does not have more weight than collective happiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is utility defined as in utilitarianism?

    <p>Producing pleasure or happiness and preventing pain or suffering</p> Signup and view all the answers

    'Cost-benefit analysis' is associated with which aspect of utilitarianism?

    <p>Measuring happiness through calculating utility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Bentham describe the relationship between pleasure, pain, and morality?

    <p>Pleasure and pain are indicators of moral rightness or wrongness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What determines the moral quality of an action?

    <p>The consequences of the action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately reflects the concept of consequentialism?

    <p>The moral quality of an action depends on the specific circumstances and consequences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of lawmakers in a consequentialist framework?

    <p>To create and modify laws based on changing social circumstances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the distinction between intention and motive, according to the text?

    <p>Intention refers to the agent's desired consequences, while motive refers to the agent's underlying reasons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of motive in determining the morality of an action?

    <p>Motive has no bearing on the morality of the action, but it affects the worth of the agent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about rights is true?

    <p>Rights are established and enforced by the government.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of an intention, according to the text?

    <p>Saving someone from drowning.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true about the morality of an action?

    <p>The morality of an action depends entirely on the agent's intention.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Bentham, which of the following statements is true?

    <p>Good and bad consequences can arise from any motive.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did John Stuart Mill criticize about Bentham's utilitarianism?

    <p>All of the above.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Mill, what is the enemy of the full and free development of human faculties?

    <p>Conformity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following human faculties does Mill suggest is exercised by making choices?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Mill, what is the consequence of letting the world or convention choose one's plan of life?

    <p>Both B and C are correct.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, which of the following statements best represents Mill's view on individual liberty?

    <p>Individual liberty is necessary for maximizing overall happiness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best represents Bentham's view on motives and consequences?

    <p>Both good and bad consequences can arise from any motive.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a human faculty that Mill believed was exercised by making choices?

    <p>Physical strength</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, why do we prefer higher pleasures?

    <p>Because we recognize them as superior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the passage suggest is the only freedom that deserves to be called freedom?

    <p>The freedom to pursue one's own good without harming others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the criterion for determining whether an action is ethical or not?

    <p>Whether it affects others or their happiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT presented as a criticism or issue with the idea of maximizing happiness?

    <p>Whether some actions are intrinsically wrong, regardless of their consequences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, in what circumstances is an individual free to do whatever they want?

    <p>When they are alone and their actions do not affect others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a reason for why we judge Hamlet as great art?

    <p>Because we like it more than lesser entertainments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what should the government NOT interfere with?

    <p>Individual liberty</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is presented as a criticism or issue with the idea of maximizing happiness?

    <p>Whether to maximize immediate or long-term happiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main argument presented in the text regarding the utilitarian view on valuing human life?

    <p>Utilitarianism argues that social choices inherently involve trading off a certain number of lives for other benefits and conveniences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the intention behind utilitarianism?

    <p>To foresee and consider the consequences of actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the criticism leveled against utilitarianism in the text?

    <p>It fails to respect individual rights in favor of collective preferences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best represents the utilitarian view on torture in extreme circumstances?

    <p>Utilitarianism considers torture morally permissible if it maximizes overall well-being.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the phrase "human life has its price whether we admit it or not" in the context of utilitarianism?

    <p>It implies that utilitarianism recognizes the inherent trade-offs involved in social choices that impact human life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text imply about the taboo surrounding placing monetary value on human life?

    <p>It obstructs clear thinking and rational social choice according to utilitarianism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism view individual preferences in relation to collective well-being?

    <p>Individual preferences should be counted along with everyone else's preferences in determining collective well-being.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the implication of the statement "utilitarianism fails to respect individual right" in the context of the text?

    <p>Utilitarianism prioritizes collective well-being over individual rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of consequentialism in evaluating the moral quality of an action?

    <p>The consequences relative to circumstances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect does Mill believe determines the morality of an action under utilitarianism?

    <p>Motive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In a consequentialist framework, what is emphasized as having the potential to change the moral quality of a policy?

    <p>Social circumstances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which element is NOT considered crucial in determining the moral correctness of an action under utilitarianism?

    <p>Positive laws</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Mill consider as the essential factor for deciding whether an action is morally right or wrong?

    <p>Intention</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor does NOT play a significant role in consequentialist evaluation of actions?

    <p>Motive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the critical determinant for Mill in assessing the morality of an action?

    <p>The intention behind the action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do we judge Hamlet as great art?

    <p>Because it engages our highest faculties and makes us more fully human</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the only freedom that deserves to be called freedom according to the text?

    <p>Freedom to pursue one's own good in one's own way without impeding others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the limits of ethics according to the text?

    <p>They only come into play when others are affected</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the text define intrinsically wrong actions like homosexuality?

    <p>There is nothing intrinsically wrong, including acts like homosexuality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text imply about the preferences for higher pleasures?

    <p>We prefer them because they are inherently better</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the criterion for determining when government interference with individual liberty is justified?

    <p>Only when others are directly affected by an individual's actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main factor that determines whether an action is ethical according to the text?

    <p>'When the happiness of other people is at stake'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is Mill's criticism of Bentham's utilitarianism?

    <p>It prioritizes societal happiness over individual liberty.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Mill, what is the enemy of the full and free development of human faculties?

    <p>Conformity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following human faculties does Mill suggest is exercised by making choices?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Bentham's view on the relationship between motives and consequences?

    <p>From any motive, good, bad, or indifferent actions may proceed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the passage suggest is the intention behind saving someone from drowning 'because he/she hope to get paid for the trouble'?

    <p>To receive payment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the consequence of letting the world or convention choose one's plan of life?

    <p>It requires no faculty other than imitation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best represents Mill's view on individual liberty?

    <p>Individual liberty is essential for the full development of human faculties.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main distinction between natural law and positive law?

    <p>Natural law is based on inherent human rights, while positive law is created by governing authorities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Bentham's view on natural law?

    <p>Bentham rejected the concept of natural law, considering it to be nonsensical.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the characteristics of positive law as described in the text?

    <p>Positive law is explicit, written, and has specific restrictions that apply at a certain time and place.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which philosopher is mentioned in the text as an advocate of natural law based on human reason?

    <p>Aristotle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the source of natural rights in natural law theory?

    <p>The source of natural rights can be God, nature, reason, or other philosophical concepts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes Bentham's view on rights?

    <p>Bentham rejected the concept of natural rights and advocated for positive rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of positive law according to the text?

    <p>To govern an organized society by specifying actions and restrictions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the main issue with placing a monetary value on human life?

    <p>It is a taboo that obstructs clear thinking and rational social choice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the passage suggest about utilitarianism's view on individual rights?

    <p>Individual rights are less important than the collective well-being</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the intention behind utilitarianism?

    <p>To foresee the consequences of actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the passage suggesting about the relationship between utilitarianism and torture in extreme circumstances?

    <p>Utilitarianism would condone torture if it maximizes overall happiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the primary goal of utilitarianism?

    <p>To maximize collective happiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the passage imply about the role of individual preferences in utilitarianism?

    <p>Individual preferences are considered but not the primary concern</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is the role of consequences in utilitarianism?

    <p>Consequences are the sole basis for determining moral actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Mill, what is considered the enemy of the full and free development of human faculties?

    <p>Conformity to custom and convention</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which philosopher criticized Bentham's utilitarianism by suggesting that actions should be viewed from a long-term perspective rather than case-by-case?

    <p>John Stuart Mill</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Mill argue is the consequence of letting external influences choose one's plan of life?

    <p>A lack of freedom in development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of utilitarianism, what does Mill suggest as the essential factor for achieving the greatest human happiness?

    <p>Respecting individual liberty over time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Bentham emphasize about motives and their consequences in determining the morality of actions?

    <p>Good motives can lead to bad consequences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Mill suggest is hindered when individuals act based on custom rather than choice?

    <p>Development of human faculties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fundamental principle underlying utilitarianism according to Jeremy Bentham?

    <p>The right course of action is the one that produces the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is Bentham's view on the role of individual preferences in determining morality?

    <p>Everyone's preferences should be weighed equally, without judging their validity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism propose to evaluate the morality of actions?

    <p>By measuring, aggregating, and calculating happiness or utility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is Bentham's definition of utility?

    <p>Utility is whatever produces pleasure or happiness, and prevents pain or suffering.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Bentham's view on the role of natural law in moral reasoning?

    <p>Natural law is irrelevant; moral reasoning should be based solely on the consequences of actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what are the 'two sovereign masters' that guide morality in Bentham's utilitarianism?

    <p>Pleasure and pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does utilitarianism argue about placing monetary value on human life?

    <p>It is considered a taboo that obstructs clear thinking</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism view individual rights according to the passage?

    <p>As insignificant when compared to collective well-being</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is intension in the context of foreseeing consequences as per the passage?

    <p>The foresight of potential outcomes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism prioritize individual preferences?

    <p>By valuing them equally with everyone else's preferences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does utilitarianism fail to respect individual rights based on the text?

    <p>By sacrificing individual rights for the greater good</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why would an advocate of human rights struggle with a moral decision according to the text?

    <p>Because it is morally preferable to let innocent people die than torture a suspect</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fundamental distinction between positive law and natural law?

    <p>Natural law is derived from reason and nature, while positive law is based on societal norms and conventions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which philosopher is associated with the notion that natural law is based on human reason?

    <p>Aristotle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Jeremy Bentham's view on natural law, according to the text?

    <p>Natural law is a nonsensical concept, and only positive law should be recognized.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between natural rights and positive law?

    <p>Natural rights are independent of positive law and cannot be revoked by any authority.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key characteristic that distinguishes positive law from natural law?

    <p>Positive law is explicit and written, while natural law is implicit and unwritten.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best represents Bentham's view on rights, as implied by the text?

    <p>Bentham rejected the concept of natural rights and advocated for positive rights only.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Mill, which of the following statements best reflects his stance on the distinction between higher and lower pleasures?

    <p>Higher pleasures are those that engage and develop one's faculties, even if they may be less intense than lower pleasures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best represents Mill's view on individual liberty?

    <p>Individual liberty is essential for the full and free development of human faculties, but it can be limited for the greater good.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, which of the following scenarios would Mill consider as an example of choosing a lower pleasure over a higher one?

    <p>Someone opts for a leisurely lifestyle focused on physical pleasures, rather than engaging in intellectual pursuits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best reflects Mill's view on the relationship between individual preferences and collective well-being?

    <p>Individual preferences and collective well-being should be balanced, with the latter taking priority in cases of conflict.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, which of the following statements best represents Mill's criticism of Bentham's utilitarianism?

    <p>Bentham's utilitarianism fails to account for the distinction between higher and lower pleasures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best represents Mill's view on the role of individual preferences in determining the quality of pleasures?

    <p>Individual preferences should be considered, but moral obligations should take precedence in determining the quality of pleasures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the only freedom that deserves the name according to the text?

    <p>The freedom of pursuing our own good in our own way</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the text define intrinsically wrong actions like homosexuality?

    <p>There is nothing that is intrinsically wrong, for example, homosexuality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main factor that determines whether an action is ethical according to the text?

    <p>Whether other people's happiness or interests are at stake</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text suggest as the essential factor for deciding whether an action is morally right or wrong?

    <p>Whether it affects others or the happiness of other people</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of motive in determining the morality of an action according to the text?

    <p>Motive is significant when it affects consequences for others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which philosopher is associated with the notion that natural law is based on human reason?

    <p>John Stuart Mill</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the distinction between intention and motive, according to the text?

    <p>Intention is the plan; motive is the reason behind the plan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following human faculties does Mill suggest is exercised by making choices?

    <p>The highest faculties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main distinction between natural law and positive law?

    <p>Natural law is based on reason; positive law is created by humans</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why would an advocate of human rights struggle with a moral decision according to the text?

    <p>Because they must balance individual freedoms with the well-being of others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism view the trade-off between human lives and other goods?

    <p>It argues that many social choices implicitly trade off some number of lives for other goods and conveniences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does utilitarianism consider placing monetary value on human life a taboo?

    <p>It obstructs clear thinking and rational social choice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism fail to respect individual rights?

    <p>It counts each person's preferences along with everyone else's, without giving priority to individual rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why would even advocates of human rights struggle to argue against certain actions under utilitarianism?

    <p>They would have a hard time insisting it is morally preferable to let vast numbers of innocent people die than to torture a single terrorist suspect who may know where a bomb is hidden.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does utilitarianism emphasize when it comes to individual preferences?

    <p>It suggests that each person's preferences should be counted along with everyone else's.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism view the distinction between higher and lower pleasures according to Mill?

    <p>It suggests that higher pleasures should be given precedence over lower pleasures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the essential factor for deciding whether an action is morally right or wrong according to Mill?

    <p>The greatest happiness principle.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does utilitarianism define the purpose of saving someone from drowning 'because he/she hopes to get paid for the trouble'?

    <p>It suggests that the action is motivated by personal gain rather than altruism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does utilitarianism consider as the primary goal when it comes to foresight of consequences?

    <p>The intension of foreseeing the consequences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what sense do individuals matter according to utilitarianism?

    <p>Each person's preferences should be considered along with everyone else's.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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