back to ideas for this text


Single Idea 6673

[from 'Theory of Good and Evil' by Hastings Rashdall, in 23. Ethics / E. Utilitarianism / 6. Ideal Utilitarianism ]

Full Idea

My view, called Ideal Utilitarianism, combines the utilitarian principle that Ethics must be teleological with a non-hedonistic view of ethical ends; actions are right or wrong as they produce an ideal end, which includes, but is not limited to, pleasure.

Clarification

'Teleological' activities have a purpose

Gist of Idea

Ideal Utilitarianism is teleological but non-hedonistic; the aim is an ideal end, which includes pleasure

Source

Hastings Rashdall (Theory of Good and Evil [1907], VII.I)

Book Reference

Rashdall,Hastings: 'Theory of Good and Evil 1' [OUP 1907], p.184


A Reaction

I certainly think that if you are going to be a consequentialist, then it is ridiculous to limit the end to pleasure, as it is an 'open question' as to whether we judge pleasures or pains to be good or bad. I am fond of beauty, goodness and truth, myself.