Bentham

Question 1

background - 3

Answer 1

1. regraded as father of classical ultilarianism
2. developed ethic in individualism. each human being free to create morality based not on God but on nature
3. everyone should prefer pleasure to pain. argues this is fundamental and doesn’t need evidence. argues psychological states not just physical sensations

Question 2

the hedonic calculus

Answer 2

1. Bentham says hedonic calculus measure HEDONS units of pleasure. not DOLORES - units of pain
   everyone involved needs to be considered
2. All actions need to be calculated in terms of maximisation of happiness and minimisation of pain
3. 7 basic tests
4. each person should sit down and calculate if an action will maximise pleasure

Question 3

what are the 7 basic tests?

Answer 3

purity - not followed by sensation of pain
remoteness - nearness of sensation
intensity - of sensation
certainty - of sensation
extent - o sensation - number of people involved
duration - of sensation
fecundity - chance it will produce other pleasurable experiences

Question 4

Criticisms of Bentham - 4

Answer 4

1. requires time
2. people have different ideas about what makes them happy
3. Bentham seen as cold, calculating he uses this to support workhouse
4. views all pleasures as being of equal value.

Question 5

strengths -3

Answer 5

1. the flexibility is often more compassionate as understand real world circumstances
2. Forces us to consider the common good more than the self interest
3. Until promotes wellbeing for the majority which is stabilising for society

Question 6

how does his view compatible with Christian decision making
1. attempts at social reform were strongly motivated by compassion and concern for others

Answer 6

1. Jesus said he had come to help those in need and people would be judged

Question 7

how does his view compatible with Christian decision making
2. self interest is inevitable as it is an integral part of human nature

Answer 7

2. Jesus said ‘love thy neighbour as yourself’
   recognised that self love is important

Question 8

how does Benthams new not compatible with christian decision making
1. had no time for religion - happiness was an earthly happiness

Answer 8

1. belief God is central- happiness is not just to be looked for in this life

Question 9

how does Benthams new not compatible with christian decision making
2. rejected any idea of special rights - everyones happiness counted equally

Answer 9

2. bible teaches importance of paying special attention to the vulnerable