Utilitarianism

Definition

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that posits that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility. This principle emphasizes the importance of consequences in determining the morality of an action, often summarized by the phrase 'the greatest good for the greatest number.' In the context of Epicureanism, utilitarianism relates closely to the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain, aligning with Epicurus' belief that a life of pleasure leads to happiness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicurus argued that pleasure is the highest good but emphasized that intellectual pleasures, such as friendship and philosophical contemplation, are superior to purely physical pleasures.
2. Unlike traditional hedonism, Epicureanism teaches moderation in the pursuit of pleasure to avoid pain and distress in the long term.
3. Epicurus believed that fear of death and the gods were major obstacles to achieving happiness, advocating for a philosophy that promotes tranquility and simple living.
4. Utilitarianism as a formal concept was later developed by philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, who expanded on ideas present in Epicurean thought.
5. Epicurus' Garden was a community where followers practiced these principles, emphasizing the collective pursuit of happiness through shared enjoyment and philosophical discourse.

Review Questions

• How does Epicurus' concept of pleasure relate to the principles of utilitarianism?
  • Epicurus' concept of pleasure aligns with utilitarianism in its focus on maximizing happiness. Both philosophies prioritize pleasure as the ultimate goal; however, Epicurus distinguishes between different types of pleasure, valuing intellectual and emotional joys over mere physical indulgence. This nuanced understanding reflects a more sophisticated interpretation of utility that goes beyond mere quantitative measures of happiness.
• Discuss how Epicurean ethics challenges or supports traditional views on hedonism within utilitarianism.
  • Epicurean ethics supports certain aspects of utilitarianism by advocating for the pursuit of pleasure; however, it challenges traditional hedonism by emphasizing moderation and intellectual fulfillment over immediate gratification. Epicurus argued that not all pleasures are beneficial in the long run, and some may lead to pain. This perspective encourages a thoughtful approach to happiness, suggesting that long-term satisfaction is more valuable than transient pleasures.
• Evaluate how Epicureanism influenced later developments in utilitarian thought and its application in moral philosophy.
  • Epicureanism laid important groundwork for later utilitarian thinkers by framing happiness as a measurable goal of ethical behavior. Philosophers like Jeremy Bentham built upon this foundation by formulating quantitative methods for assessing happiness and consequences. The emphasis on collective welfare and utility found in utilitarianism can be traced back to Epicurean ideas about community and shared pleasure, demonstrating how ancient philosophies continue to shape modern ethical frameworks.

Related terms

Hedonism: A philosophical doctrine that considers pleasure as the highest good and proper aim of human life.

Eudaimonia:

A term from Aristotelian ethics often translated as 'flourishing' or 'well-being,' representing the highest human good.

Consequentialism: An ethical theory that judges actions based solely on their outcomes or consequences.