Single Idea 3928

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

Full Idea

The sole trouble which virtue demands is that of just calculation, and a steady preference for the greater happiness.

Gist of Idea

Virtue just requires careful calculation and a preference for the greater happiness

Source

David Hume (Enquiry concerning Principles of Morals [1751], IX.II.228)

Book Reference

Hume,David: 'Enquiries Conc. Human Understanding, Morals', ed/tr. Selby-Bigge/Nidditch [OUP 1975], p.279


A Reaction

Hume was the parent of utilitarianism. Can one person exhibit virtue on a desert island?