Single Idea 4010

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

Full Idea

In mature utilitarianism , the stress on modern freedom emerges in the rejection of paternalism.

Clarification

'Paternalism' means making other people's decisions without consulting them

Gist of Idea

In later utilitarianism the modern stress on freedom leads to the rejection of paternalism

Source

Charles Taylor (Sources of the Self [1989], §3.3)

Book Reference

Taylor,Charles: 'Sources of the Self' [CUP 1992], p.82


A Reaction

This seems good; it is the beginnings of a rejection of paternalism. What is better, happiness or freedom? What is the value of freedom?