Study Questions

  1. Under what “two sovereign masters” has mankind been placed, according to Bentham? What exactly does he mean by this? Does this provide a plausible account of human action? Why or why not?
  2. What is the principle of utility, and how does Bentham think it can be established? Does the principle of utility provide a reliable guide to our moral obligations? Defend your answer.
  3. How do we go about measuring utility, in Bentham’s view? To what extent does he think that utilitarian calculations should play a role in our everyday lives? Do you agree with his view?
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