Utilitarianism

Definition

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that proposes that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility. It emphasizes the consequences of actions and argues that actions are right if they promote happiness and wrong if they produce the opposite. This principle is significant in discussions about social justice and equality, particularly in relation to feminist thought, as it raises questions about whose happiness is prioritized in societal decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Utilitarianism argues that the morality of an action is determined by its outcome, focusing on maximizing overall happiness for the greatest number.
2. Harriet Taylor Mill, alongside her husband John Stuart Mill, applied utilitarian principles to advocate for women's rights, arguing that women's liberation would benefit society as a whole.
3. The theory raises critical questions about whose happiness counts, leading to discussions on privilege and marginalization in feminist contexts.
4. Utilitarianism can sometimes justify actions that may harm minorities if those actions lead to a greater overall benefit, which raises ethical concerns.
5. Critics of utilitarianism often argue that it can overlook justice and individual rights, which are vital considerations in feminist political thought.

Review Questions

• How does utilitarianism relate to Harriet Taylor Mill's advocacy for women's rights?
  • Utilitarianism connects deeply with Harriet Taylor Mill's advocacy as she believed that improving women's status would lead to greater overall happiness in society. By arguing for women's rights through a utilitarian lens, she highlighted how the liberation of women not only benefits women themselves but also enhances societal welfare. This perspective allowed her to challenge traditional norms by asserting that both genders should contribute equally to the collective happiness.
• Discuss the ethical implications of prioritizing majority happiness in utilitarianism within feminist discourse.
  • The ethical implications of prioritizing majority happiness in utilitarianism are significant in feminist discourse because it can lead to the marginalization of minority voices. If the happiness of the majority dictates policy or action, the needs and rights of women or other oppressed groups may be overlooked. This creates a tension where the pursuit of the greater good can sometimes justify injustices against those who are already disadvantaged, prompting feminist theorists to seek a balance between utility and individual rights.
• Evaluate how utilitarianism can both support and challenge feminist movements in achieving social change.
  • Utilitarianism can support feminist movements by providing a framework that emphasizes collective well-being and the importance of social reforms aimed at increasing happiness for all genders. However, it can also challenge these movements when the pursuit of majority happiness leads to decisions that harm marginalized groups, such as women or other minorities. Therefore, while utilitarian principles can motivate social change towards equality, they must be critically examined to ensure that they do not inadvertently reinforce existing inequalities or neglect individual rights in the name of the greater good.

Related terms

Hedonism: A philosophical theory that suggests pleasure or happiness is the highest good and proper aim of human life.

John Stuart Mill:

An influential philosopher and economist who further developed utilitarianism and advocated for individual rights and gender equality.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, often addressing issues of equity, rights, and opportunities.