ETHICS: FOUNDATIONS OF MORAL

VALUATION
ACTIVITIES CHAPTER 4 (Utilitarianism)

1. According to utilitarianism, pleasures are generally considered commensurable

and can be evaluated on a single scale. The overall goal is to maximize utility or
happiness, and different pleasures can be compared and balanced against each
other in terms of their contribution to overall well-being. However, it is important
to note that there may be subjective differences in individual preferences and
experiences of pleasure, which can make it challenging to precisely measure and
compare all pleasures.

2. Mill argued for the existence of "higher" pleasures, which he believed were more
valuable than "lower" pleasures. Higher pleasures are often associated with
intellectual, moral, and aesthetic experiences, such as the pursuit of knowledge,
appreciation of beauty, or engagement in meaningful relationships and activities.
Mill believed that these higher pleasures provide a more profound and lasting
sense of happiness compared to mere physical or sensual pleasures.

3. While Mill suggested that higher pleasures could be determined by the

preferences of the majority, it is debatable whether this is a sufficient criterion for
distinguishing between higher and lower pleasures. The preferences of the
majority may not always align with what is morally or intellectually valuable. A
well-informed majority can certainly have preferences for higher pleasures, but it
is also possible for individuals to have unique and informed preferences that
differ from the majority.

4. Utilitarianism does not inherently prioritize individual rights, as it focuses on

maximizing overall happiness or utility. In certain situations, utilitarianism may
justify violating the civil rights of a minority if it results in a greater sum total of
pleasure for the majority. However, this raises important ethical concerns about
fairness, justice, and the potential for oppression. Many ethical frameworks,
 including rights-based theories, provide checks and balances to prevent the
exploitation of minorities in the pursuit of maximizing utility.

5. Utilitarianism does consider happiness as a fundamental goal and views actions

as means to maximize pleasure and minimize pain. However, it is important to
note that not all ethical theories agree with this perspective. Different ethical
frameworks place varying degrees of emphasis on happiness, pleasure, virtue,
duty, or other moral considerations. The idea that all actions are solely directed
toward pleasure may oversimplify human motivations and the complexities of
ethical decision-making.

6. Utilitarianism typically treats all pleasures as comparable, including objectionable

ones. However, this can be a point of contention. Critics argue that certain
pleasures, such as those derived from unethical or harmful behaviors, should not
be considered on the same level as morally acceptable pleasures. It highlights the
importance of considering the quality and consequences of pleasures, as well as
the potential conflicts between individual desires and societal well-being

7. The justifiability of building a basketball court versus a hospital depends on the

context and the values prioritized. Utilitarianism would consider the overall
happiness or utility generated by each choice. If the presence of a basketball
court brings significant pleasure to a larger number of people than the benefit
provided by a hospital to a smaller number, utilitarianism would prioritize the
basketball court. However, this utilitarian calculation may be challenged by other
ethical frameworks that place a higher value on promoting health and saving
lives.

8. Utilitarianism does not provide a straightforward answer to the question of when

it is justifiable to torture suspected criminals. It depends on the specific
circumstances and the expected consequences. Utilitarianism would evaluate
whether the overall utility or happiness is maximized by resorting to torture.
However, the ethical implications of torture, such as human rights violations and
 the long-term societal impact, often raise significant concerns that may outweigh
the potential benefits.

9. As an AI language model, I do not have personal emotions or experiences, so I do

not possess a concept of happiness in the same way humans do. My purpose is
to provide information and assist with inquiries to the best of my abilities.

10. Moral rights refer to a set of