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 (D)</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 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is utility defined as in utilitarianism?

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

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

<p>Measuring happiness through calculating utility (C)</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. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What determines the moral quality of an action?

<p>The consequences of the action (B)</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. (B)</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. (C)</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. (A)</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. (A)</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. (D)</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. (D)</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. (D)</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. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>All of the above. (D)</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 (C)</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 (D)</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. (A)</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. (C)</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. (D)</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 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Because we recognize them as superior (B)</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 (B)</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 (C)</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 (D)</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 (C)</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 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Individual liberty (A)</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 (D)</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. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the intention behind utilitarianism?

<p>To foresee and consider the consequences of actions. (B)</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. (B)</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. (C)</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. (D)</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. (D)</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. (D)</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. (B)</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 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Motive (A)</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 (A)</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 (D)</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 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Motive (B)</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 (D)</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 (C)</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 (A)</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 (D)</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 (A)</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 (B)</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 (D)</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' (C)</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. (B)</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 (C)</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 (D)</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. (A)</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 (B)</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. (C)</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. (C)</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. (A)</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. (C)</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. (C)</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 (C)</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. (C)</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. (D)</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. (C)</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 (A)</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 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

<p>To maximize collective happiness (A)</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 (A)</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 (C)</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 (B)</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 (D)</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 (D)</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 (C)</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 (A)</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 (B)</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. (B)</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. (C)</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. (B)</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. (C)</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. (A)</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. (D)</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 (B)</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 (B)</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 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does utilitarianism prioritize individual preferences?

<p>By valuing them equally with everyone else's preferences (B)</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 (D)</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 (B)</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. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Aristotle (B)</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. (C)</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. (D)</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. (C)</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. (A)</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. (D)</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. (A)</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. (D)</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. (A)</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. (D)</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. (D)</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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