NAME : Bayer Jarod

SEMESTER : 5TH SEMESTER,2023
COURSE : Humanities (HMNT 159)
 
 

Introduction to Utilitarianism: A Philosophical Approach to Ethics

I. Introduction

Utilitarianism is a philosophical theory that proposes the idea of maximizing the overall well-
being of individuals in society. It is one of the most prominent approaches to ethics and has been
a significant influence in fields such as political philosophy, economics, and environmental
ethics. Utilitarianism has been subject to criticism and debate since its inception, but it remains a
prevalent ethical theory and a valuable framework for analyzing and evaluating moral decisions.

In this lecture, we will explore the basic principles of utilitarianism, its history, and its
importance in contemporary society. We will also examine some criticisms of the theory and its
applications in various fields, such as public policy, healthcare, and environmental ethics. By the
end of this lecture, you will have a better understanding of utilitarianism and its relevance to our
lives.

II. The Principles of Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism is based on three fundamental principles: the Greatest Happiness Principle, the
Importance of Consequences, and the Hedonistic Calculus.

A. The Greatest Happiness Principle

The Greatest Happiness Principle is the cornerstone of utilitarianism. It states that actions are
morally right if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. This
principle emphasizes the importance of maximizing overall well-being and minimizing suffering
in society. It also suggests that ethical decisions should be made based on the consequences of
those decisions.

B. The Importance of Consequences

Utilitarianism places great importance on the consequences of actions. The theory proposes that
ethical decisions should be made based on the anticipated outcomes of those decisions. The idea
is to choose actions that are likely to produce the most favorable consequences for the greatest
number of people.

C. Hedonistic Calculus
 
NAME : Bayer Jarod
SEMESTER : 5TH SEMESTER,2023
COURSE : Humanities (HMNT 159)
 
 

The hedonistic calculus is a method used by utilitarianism to quantify happiness and suffering. It
suggests that the value of an action should be measured by the amount of pleasure it produces
and the amount of pain it prevents. Utilitarians believe that actions that result in the greatest
amount of happiness and the least amount of suffering are the most ethical.

Overall, utilitarianism proposes that the ultimate goal of moral decision-making is to promote the
greatest overall happiness and reduce the overall suffering of society.

III. Criticisms of Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism has been subject to various criticisms since its inception. Here are some of the
most common criticisms of utilitarianism:

A. The Problem of Justice and Fairness

One of the most significant criticisms of utilitarianism is the problem of justice and fairness.
Critics argue that utilitarianism can justify actions that violate basic principles of justice and
fairness. For example, utilitarianism may suggest that it is ethical to sacrifice the interests of a
minority group if it benefits the majority. Critics argue that this violates the principle of equal
treatment and undermines the foundation of a just society.

B. The Problem of Moral Rights

Utilitarianism is often criticized for neglecting the importance of moral rights. Critics argue that
ethical decisions should be based on the recognition of individual rights, such as the right to life,
liberty, and privacy. Utilitarianism may justify actions that violate these rights if they result in
the greatest overall happiness. Critics argue that this undermines the foundation of individual
rights and may lead to a slippery slope of ethical relativism.

C. The Problem of Demandingness

Utilitarianism may also be criticized for being too demanding. The theory suggests that
individuals should always act in ways that promote the greatest overall happiness, even if it
requires personal sacrifice. Critics argue that this places an unrealistic burden on individuals and
may lead to ethical burnout or moral distress.

Overall, utilitarianism has been subject to various criticisms, and the theory's application in
ethical decision-making requires careful consideration of these criticisms.
 
NAME : Bayer Jarod
SEMESTER : 5TH SEMESTER,2023
COURSE : Humanities (HMNT 159)
 
 

IV. Applications of Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism has many applications in various fields, such as public policy, healthcare, and
environmental ethics. Here are some examples of how utilitarianism is applied:

A. Public Policy and Legislation

Utilitarianism is often used in public policy and legislation to determine which actions will have
the greatest overall benefit for society. For example, policymakers may use utilitarianism to
determine whether a new law or policy will promote the greatest happiness for the greatest
number of people.

B. Healthcare and Medical Ethics

Utilitarianism is also used in healthcare and medical ethics to determine the best course of action
for patients. For example, doctors may use utilitarianism to determine which treatment option
will result in the greatest overall benefit for the patient and society.

C. Environmental Ethics

Utilitarianism is applied in environmental ethics to determine how to balance the needs of

humans with the needs of the environment. For example, policymakers may use utilitarianism to
determine how to allocate resources in a way that promotes the greatest overall benefit for
humans and the environment.

Overall, utilitarianism provides a framework for analyzing and evaluating ethical decisions in
various fields, and its applications are widespread. However, the theory's application requires
careful consideration of the potential consequences and criticisms of utilitarianism.

V. Conclusion

Utilitarianism is a prominent ethical theory that proposes the idea of maximizing overall well-
being in society. It is based on the principles of the Greatest Happiness Principle, the Importance
of Consequences, and the Hedonistic Calculus. Utilitarianism has many applications in various
fields, such as public policy, healthcare, and environmental ethics. However, the theory has been
subject to various criticisms, such as the problem of justice and fairness, the problem of moral
rights, and the problem of demandingness.
 
NAME : Bayer Jarod
SEMESTER : 5TH SEMESTER,2023
COURSE : Humanities (HMNT 159)
 
 

Despite its criticisms, utilitarianism remains a prevalent ethical theory and a valuable framework
for analyzing and evaluating moral decisions. By understanding the basic principles of
utilitarianism and its applications, we can better navigate ethical dilemmas and promote the
greatest overall happiness and well-being in society.