Philosophy 20: Ethics

Pierce College

Department of History, Philosophy, & Sociology

Lecture Notes for Mill's Utilitarianism

0) Happiness

1) Principle of Happiness: whatever produces the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of creatures that can feel pleasure and pain is the morally correct thing.

2) Low or Base Pleasures and Pains ≠ High or Intellectual Pains or Pleasures

2) Competent judges determine which of two (or more) pleasures are better.

3) Neither pleasures should be neglected in creatures capable of having them.

4) Short-term consequences ≠ long-term consequences.

5) All involved parties' interests are relevant.

6) Happiness cannot really be obtained if one's security (right to life, etc.) is not protected.