Exam 12: The Utilitarian: John Stuart Mill

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The belief that pleasure is the ground of morality is a concept known as hedonism. Hedonism argues that the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the ultimate goals of human life, and therefore, the basis for determining what is morally right or wrong.

There are different schools of thought within hedonism, but they generally share the idea that pleasure is the highest good and should be sought after. However, this view has been widely debated and criticized by philosophers and ethicists.

One of the main criticisms of hedonism is that it can lead to selfish and short-sighted behavior. If pleasure is the only consideration for morality, then individuals may prioritize their own immediate gratification over the well-being of others or the long-term consequences of their actions. This can lead to unethical behavior and harm to others.

Additionally, the pursuit of pleasure as the basis for morality can be subjective and vary greatly from person to person. What brings pleasure to one individual may cause pain to another, making it difficult to establish a universal standard for moral behavior.

Many ethical theories argue that there are other important factors to consider in determining what is morally right or wrong, such as the well-being of others, justice, and the fulfillment of duties and responsibilities. These theories emphasize the importance of considering the consequences of actions and the impact they have on individuals and society as a whole.

In conclusion, while pleasure may be an important aspect of human life, it is not sufficient as the sole ground of morality. Morality is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires consideration of a wide range of factors beyond just pleasure.