Single Idea 23278

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / E. Utilitarianism / 1. Utilitarianism]

Full Idea

The basic bearer of value for Utilitarianism is the state of affairs, and hence, when the relevant causal differences have been allowed for, it cannot make any further difference who produces a given state of affairs.

Gist of Idea

For utilitarians states of affairs are what have value, not matter who produced them

Source

Bernard Williams (Persons, Character and Morality [1976], I)

Book Reference

Williams,Bernard: 'Moral Luck: Papers 1973-1980' [CUP 1981], p.4


A Reaction

Which is morally better, that I water your bed of flowers, or that it rains? Which is morally better, that I water them from love, or because you threaten me with a whip?