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The fault of the utilitarian doctrine is that it mistakes…

“The fault of the utilitarian doctrine is that it mistakes impersonality for impartiality.” quote by John Rawls
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“The fault of the utilitarian doctrine is that it mistakes impersonality for impartiality.”

John Rawls

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Utilitarianism confuses lack of bias with lack of personal connection, overlooking moral nuance.

In simple terms: Impartiality ≠ impersonality.

Key Takeaway

Question moral assumptions.

Themes

ethics utilitarianism impartiality

Mood

critical philosophical

Type

ethical analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • ethical debates
  • lawmaking

Key Concepts

moral philosophy justice humaneness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is impartiality always fair?
  • How to balance empathy with fairness?
A Different Perspective

Utilitarianism can ignore individual rights.

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