Review Questions:

1. Rachels says that classical utilitarianism can be summed up in three propositions. What are they?

First,  Actions are judged right or wrong solely in virtue of their consequences. Second, In assessing consequences, the only thing that matters is the amount of happiness or unhappiness that caused. And Third,  In calculating happiness or unhappiness that will be caused , no one’s happiness is to be counted as more important than anyone else.

2. Explain the problem with hedonism. How do defenders of utilitarianism respond to this problem?

Hedonism is a perennially popular theory that goes back at least as far as ancient Greeks. It is the belief of a good thing, which they called happiness. Happiness is a response as goods, independently and in their own right. In order to defend utilitarianism, they must make use resources which makes them happy, to be happy.

3. What are the objections about justice, rights and promises?

Justice is fair judgement. The only thing valued is rights because promises can be broken.

4. Distinguish between rule- and act- utilitarianism. How does rule- utilitarianism reply to the objections?

The new version of Utilitarianism modifies the original theory so that individual actions will no longer be judged by Principle of Utility. Instead, rules will be established by reference to the rules. Rule Utilitarianism is actions conforming to the rules that will lead to the greater good while on the other hand, Act Utilitarianism states that the right action is the one that will give happiness to a person.

5. What is the third line of defense?

Act Utilitarianism

Discussion Questions:

1. Smart’s defense of utilitarianism is to reject common moral beliefs when they conflict with utilitarianism. Is this acceptable to you or not? Explain your answer.

No, because we all have our own beliefs and it will depend and differ from one another.

2. A utilitarian is supposed to give moral consideration to all concerned. Who must be considered? What about nonhuman animals? How about lakes and streams?

I think everyone can be taken into consideration. But it is vital that the one who needs more morality should be considered first.

3. Rachels claims that merit should be given moral consideration independent of utility. Do you agree?

Agree.