Utilitarianism essays

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Utilitarianism! Ever heard the saying, “for the greater good”? That’s the heart and soul of it. Imagine you’re at a crossroads and have to pick a path. One way might make a few folks ecstatic but leave many in the dumps. The other? It could sprinkle a bit of happiness ...

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Gun control has hit the news heavily in response to the increase in mass shootings. However, there’s a huge divide in how to solve the issue, ranging from taking away the right for people to own guns or decreasing gun laws to allowing everyone to have one. But how do we solve gun control while benefiting the most people? This is where red flags laws come into play. This law will take away guns from those who are at risk...
1 Page 497 Words
The ugliness of Industrialism in Hard Times by Charles Dickens In his novel Hard Times Charles Dickens represents capitalist greed, the fragile education system, and the inhuman treatment of factory workers in a realistic perspective which were happening in Victorian in the 19th century. Introduction Charles Dickens is a quite well-known novelist of the Victorian Era credited with many voluminous novels. When we look at his novels one striking quality appears which is that no matter what the subject is...
6 Pages 2539 Words
Utilitarian reasoning is applied in various aspects of human life. A typical human life consists of 5 aspects: the work, health, learning, social, and spiritual levels of existence. It is often used both for moral reasoning and for any kind of rational decision-making. Additionally applied in several contexts, it can even be used for deliberations about the interests of various persons and groups. Speaking of the work aspect of life, utilitarianism within the workplace focuses on ethics, democracy, rights, and...
3 Pages 1169 Words
1. Introduction In this essay, I argue that it is rationally preferable for a human being to act altruistically than to not do so if and only if the altruistic behavior does not harm the benefactor in any way. In the following paragraphs, I will present two theories that are considered consequentialist: Ethical Egoism and Utilitarianism, then compare and contrast them to decide which theory presents a more rationally appealing reason for why altruism is morally advantageous. For the sake...
5 Pages 2152 Words
The problem with utilitarianism is that morality depends entirely on calculations of consequences, but we cannot create a simple formula for complex moral decision-making. Gut feelings have no numerical value, furthermore, we simply can’t evaluate each action based on the effects it will have. One can never be certain that an action is indeed right and produces the greatest happiness, which is a major flaw in this philosophy. A utilitarian could respond to my claim by stating that all people...
2 Pages 955 Words
The problem of trafficking of humans is widespread and it is estimated that annually, approximately 14,500 and 17,500 individuals are victims of trafficking into the United States. This is a hidden population involving factories, restaurant businesses, agriculture, the commercial sex industry, agriculture, domestic workers, some adoption firms and marriage brokers. 80% of individuals who are trafficked individuals are female; therefore, those who provide healthcare for women can best serve this diverse patient population with increased awareness of the problem. Exploiting...
5 Pages 2056 Words
In the space of morals and values, integrity stands as one of the most commonly revered. It permeates through all aspects of an agent’s life and becomes the foundation for the development of a virtuous character. While integrity retains a level of prestige when reflected upon by an agent, and viewed by constitutive others, at times it's faced by the overwhelming collective. A deluge of moral strife arises out of the need to fulfill the needs of the many by...
4 Pages 1747 Words
The basic foundation for answering what is considered good would lead to a consequentialist answer that is anything producing a net amount of pleasure or happiness. All people seek happiness so this is the ideal mechanism that determines morality. Utilitarianism is a perspective wherein the fulfillment of the best number of people in the overall population is seen as the best extraordinary. Utilitarianism is universal because everyone wants to seek happiness and is the only thing with intrinsic value. As...
1 Page 396 Words
Introduction Immanuel Kant and John Stuart Mill demonstrate two contrasting moral theories. The philosophers have very different ideas about ethics and happiness. Immanuel Kant, author of “Duty and Reason”, believed in the morality of goodwill and duty. According to Kant, happiness is an emotion unable to be controlled while motive is controllable; therefore, duty is the most important aspect of leading a moral life. Conversely, John Stuart Mill, who wrote, “The Greatest Happiness Principle”, is well known as a utilitarian,...
5 Pages 2205 Words
The movie 'Gone Baby Gone' revolves around the abduction of four-year-old Amanda McCready. The plot was made more interesting by each character in the story who had their take on each situation given their moral compasses. The complexity of each situation exemplified the grey areas of reality. Moreover, it must be recognized if they fit the criteria for the responsibility of their human acts. Each personality has its motive, act, and consequence. Regarding the responsibility of the person, three circumstances...
4 Pages 1970 Words
Is it acceptable to end a human being’s life who is in a critical state that is suffering through excruciating pain and suffering? In this essay, we will discuss how the philosophical principle of utilitarianism is applied to the complicated issue of euthanasia and the unique moral beliefs that come with different types of euthanasia. I’m also going to discuss passive and active euthanasia from a utilitarian point of view as well as a unitarian perspective on non-voluntary and voluntary...
2 Pages 952 Words
In business ethics, moral guidelines are used to help people make the right decisions in organizations and utilitarianism ultimately provides the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest amount of people and these rules help that to be followed through. Utilitarianism provides the best approach as we know that utilitarianism is a teleological theory and looks at whether the ends justify the means and provide the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest amount of people. For example, if this...
2 Pages 942 Words
In 2001, Portugal became the first country to decriminalize the consumption of all drugs. The result was a decline in the proportion of drug-related offenders in the Portuguese prison population (Murkin, 2014). This led many to question if drug laws — and not the drugs themselves — cause the most damage to society. Proponents of this argue based on utilitarianism and Mill’s (1849) harm principle. On the other hand, arguments for criminalizing the consumption of drugs include legal paternalism and...
3 Pages 1485 Words
Utilitarianism, a consequentialist ethical theory, asserts that the moral worth of an action is determined by its ability to produce the greatest amount of happiness or pleasure for the greatest number of people. However, within the framework of Utilitarianism, there exist variations known as extreme and restricted Utilitarianism. These variations differ in their approach to maximizing utility and addressing moral dilemmas. In this essay, we will delve into the characteristics of extreme and restricted Utilitarianism, analyze their strengths and weaknesses,...
2 Pages 700 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism, an influential ethical theory, emphasizes the maximization of overall happiness as the basis for determining the moral rightness or wrongness of actions. Developed by philosophers such as Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, R.M. Hare, and Peter Singer, Utilitarianism has gained prominence for its consequentialist approach to ethics. Definition and Core Principles Utilitarianism posits that the consequences of actions, rather than their motives or adherence to moral rules, are what determine their ethical value. Actions are judged based on...
1 Page 492 Words
Introduction In the field of nursing ethics, two prominent ethical theories often come into play: deontology and utilitarianism. While both aim to guide ethical decision-making, they approach moral dilemmas from different perspectives. This essay will compare and contrast deontology and utilitarianism in the context of nursing ethics, highlighting their key principles and applications. Deontology in Nursing Deontology is an ethical theory that emphasizes duty, rules, and principles in determining the morality of actions. In nursing, deontological principles often include respecting...
1 Page 547 Words
Introduction Euthanasia, the deliberate act of ending another's life, often in cases of extreme suffering and with the individual's consent, remains one of the most contentious ethical dilemmas in modern society. Ethical theories such as Kantianism and Utilitarianism offer contrasting perspectives on the moral permissibility of euthanasia. While Utilitarianism justifies euthanasia based on its consequences in maximizing overall happiness, Kantianism rejects it due to the violation of categorical imperatives. However, both theories exhibit significant flaws in their reasoning, making the...
1 Page 480 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism, as an ethical theory, traditionally focuses on maximizing overall happiness or pleasure. However, within the realm of Utilitarian thought, there exists a variant known as qualitative Utilitarianism, which emphasizes the quality rather than the quantity of happiness. This essay delves into the principles and implications of qualitative Utilitarianism. Understanding Qualitative Utilitarianism Qualitative Utilitarianism diverges from classical Utilitarianism by asserting that not all pleasures are of equal value. While classical Utilitarianism suggests that all pleasures should be quantified and...
1 Page 469 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism and libertarianism stand as two distinct ethical theories, each offering a unique perspective on moral decision-making and societal organization. While utilitarianism prioritizes the maximization of overall happiness, libertarianism emphasizes the protection of individual rights and limited government intervention. This essay aims to delve into the fundamental differences between these ideologies and their implications for ethical reasoning and social governance. Utilitarianism: Pursuit of Happiness at the Expense of Rights Utilitarianism, rooted in the philosophy of consequentialism, posits that the...
1 Page 564 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that posits the maximization of utility as the basis for moral decision-making. In the context of abortion, utilitarianism weighs the consequences of terminating a pregnancy against the potential benefits to determine the ethical course of action. This essay explores the utilitarian perspective on abortion, highlighting the ethical considerations and implications involved. Abortion: Definition and Context Abortion is the deliberate termination of human pregnancy, often performed under various circumstances. While some argue for its legality...
1 Page 404 Words
Utilitarianism, as an ethical theory, falls under the broader category of consequentialism. Consequentialism posits that the morality of an action is determined solely by its consequences, rather than any inherent qualities of the action itself. Within this framework, utilitarianism stands out as a prominent and influential approach to ethical decision-making. This essay explores utilitarianism as a form of consequentialism, examining its key principles, historical development, and implications in ethical reasoning. Definition of Utilitarianism and Consequentialism Utilitarianism is a moral theory...
1 Page 562 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism stands as a moral framework grounded in the pursuit of the greatest happiness and utility. This essay aims to delve into the various traits and characteristics inherent in Utilitarianism, shedding light on its complexities and nuances. By focusing on key contributors such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, we can explore the diverse perspectives within Utilitarianism and analyze its traits in depth. Teleological and Deontological Theories Utilitarianism incorporates both teleological and deontological perspectives in its ethical framework....
1 Page 451 Words
Introduction Utilitarianism and deontology are two prominent ethical theories that guide decision-making in various contexts. Utilitarianism focuses on maximizing good outcomes, while deontology emphasizes moral rules and duties. This essay argues that deontology provides a stronger platform for critical decision-making in society due to its emphasis on moral principles and human dignity. Utilitarianism: Pursuit of Good Outcomes Utilitarianism, founded by philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, prioritizes the maximization of good outcomes. The principle of utility dictates that...
1 Page 434 Words
Moral philosophy serves as a guiding light in navigating the complexities of ethical decision-making, offering us insights into how we should approach moral dilemmas. Within this realm, utilitarianism and Kantianism emerge as two prominent ethical frameworks, each with distinct principles and applications. In this essay, we will delve into the key principles, differences, applications, and implications of utilitarianism and Kantianism, shedding light on their contrasting perspectives. The Foundations of Utilitarianism Originating from the minds of Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart...
1 Page 494 Words
It is 2019. America is the land of the free, and when it comes to marijuana that means thirty-three states allowing medical marijuana and eleven states legalizing it for recreational use. This, however, has not brought freedom back to the tens of thousands of Americans who have been charged with marijuana possession. Many of these people are incarcerated in private for-profit prisons that lobby their interests to government representatives. This industry has a heavy interest in keeping as many prisoners...
1 Page 647 Words
It is commonly acknowledged that the ethics of abortion have long been a source of discussion and debate, with debate spanning decades. The term literally refers to the act of terminating a pregnancy by either extracting an embryo or the fetus before it reaches development (Forster 52). Miscarriage is the term for an unintentional abortion; conversely, induced abortion is the term for a planned abortion. The removal of the fetus when it has the capacity to survive in the outer...
2 Pages 969 Words
Philosophy Term Paper: Jeremy Bentham Jeremy Bentham is a famous English political radical and philosopher. Among his philosophical works, the most well-known is the concept of utilitarianism in which the acts and actions are assessed based on the potential outcomes and consequences (Stanford Encyclopedia, 2019). The most aspired result or the relevant outcome is happiness or pleasure to ensure for all and sundry in the course of action. Bentham was incredibly influenced by empiricists and enlightenment thinkers such as David...
2 Pages 982 Words
Executive Summary This is qualitative research that possesses the capacity to introduce the standard of Utilitarianism as a standout amongst the most effective and enticing ways to deal with regulating morals. John Stuart Mill is an early established supporter of Bentham, who concocted this philosophical hypothesis. John Stuart Mills by one means or another did share some unique perspectives with respect to some part of this hypothesis in light of the feeling of bliss. In later circumstances, Philosopher Karl Marx...
6 Pages 2790 Words
Journalists being free to publish information is vital to a functioning, democratic society, and an informed population. However, a number of checks and balances are required to ensure that this right is not abused. As the Council of Europe’s guidelines on safeguarding privacy in the media state, “a journalist’s right to freedom of expression is not absolute. Journalists have rights and responsibilities” (Council of Europe, 2018). This means that the press must be ethical and responsible and that, contrary to...
6 Pages 2758 Words
Ethics is the study of morality, Ethics is the moral principles governing a person’s or agent’s actions. I would call myself a Utilitarian-Egoists ethicist because I believe in doing that act that produces the greatest good for the masses but however, in doing that act that produces the greatest good for the greatest number we must always put our self-first, although at times self-egoism may seem selfish, it is always fair and intrinsically good to be self-motivated. My internal reflection...
7 Pages 3025 Words
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