Chapter 4 Essay Questions

  1. Analyze Bentham’s utilitarianism. Do you agree with him that “pain and pleasure” are our “two sovereign masters?” What does he mean by pain and pleasure? Note that “pleasure” is an ambiguous word. It can refer to “sensuous titillation” or “satisfaction.” Which does Bentham mean? Which concept does he need for his theory?
  1. What does Mill mean by “It is better to be a human being dissatisfied than a pig satisfied; better to be Socrates dissatisfied than a food satisfied”?
  1. Analyze Kai Nielsen’s arguments for utilitarianism. What are their strengths and weaknesses?
  1. Why does Williams reject the utilitarian notion of negative responsibility?
  1. Discuss how Ursula Le Guin’s story applies to the debate over utilitarianism. Would you walk away from Omelas (Salem spelled backward plus O for Oregon)? Explain your answer.
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