Critics of Consequentialism have often assumed that…
“Critics of Consequentialism have often assumed that hedonism (or preference-satisfaction) must be the theory of the good, that the deontic principle must be maximizing, and that the principle should be applied to individual acts. Indeed, this version is often called "classical utilitarianism" and attributed to Bentham and sometimes even to Mill. Rather than a "classical" view it is a recent construction foisted on to the tradition.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He critiques the assumption that utilitarianism must be classical, arguing that contemporary versions differ from original theories.
In simple terms: Challenges the view that utilitarianism is only classical.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions in philosophy.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
theory
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
academic
When to use this quote
- policy making
- moral dilemmas
- academic debate
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
consequentialism
deontology
preference satisfaction
Questions to Reflect On
- How does modern utilitarianism differ from classical?
- What are the practical implications of this shift?
A Different Perspective
Simplifying complex theories can overlook nuances.