Single Idea 20574

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 4. Social Utilitarianism]

Full Idea

A focus solely on utility excludes considerations of personal responsibility and duty, as well as considerations of the basic rights of individuals.

Gist of Idea

Utilitarianism neglects responsibility, duties and rights

Source

Johanna Oksala (Political Philosophy: all that matters [2013], Ch.7)

Book Reference

Oksala,Johanna: 'Political Philosophy' [Hodder and Stoughton 2013], p.86


A Reaction

[He cites these as the common modern criticisms] The defence is to explain the value of each of these in utilitarian terms. There is a general problem (conceded by Mill) of motivation in utilitarianism. There's not much in it for me!