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¡¥We can promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number¡¦
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¡¥We can promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number¡¦ The above principle comes from a form of moral philosophy called Utilitarianism. Defining Utilitarianism. „h Utilitarianism is a nineteenth century teleological ethical theory, which maintains that one ought always to act so as to maximise well being. „h Utilitarianism is the best known type of consequentialist ethical theory. „h Utilitarianism is based on the assumption that the ultimate aim of all human activity is (in some sense) happiness. Such a view is known as hedonism. „h A Utilitarian defines 'good' as 'whatever brings about the most happiness for the greatest number of people'. This is sometimes known as the Greatest Happiness Principle or the Principle of Utility. „h For a utilitarian the right action in any circumstances can be calculated by examining the probable consequences of the various possible courses of action. Whichever is most likely to bring about the most happiness for the greatest number of people (or at least the greatest balance of happiness over unhappiness) is the right action in those circumstances. www.philosophypages.com/dy/g9.htm Philosophers There are two philosophers who major in the utilitarian ¡¥ greatest happiness of the greatest number¡¦ principle. Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) History of Jeremy Bentham Jeremy Bentham theory on ¡¥we should promote the greatest happiness of the greatest number¡¦ History of John Stuart Mill John Stuart Mills theory on ¡¥We should promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number¡¦ An over all of the strength¡¦s and weakness of the Utilitarian principle ¡¥we should promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number¡¦ Strengths „h Utilitarianism is a comprehensible theory i.e., it is based upon a general universal understanding of happiness both of what it is and what produces it.
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