Animal Quote by Peter Singer
“According to classical utilitarianism, the only intrinsic good is happiness; the only intrinsic bad is pain. That implies no intrinsic value in preserving nature, that preserving an endangered plant is valuable only if it benefits humans or other animals. Intuitively, that seems wrong but perhaps I shouldn't trust my intuition here.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Practical Ethics, 1979
Classical utilitarianism values only happiness and pain, ignoring intrinsic worth of nature, which feels intuitively wrong.
In simple terms: Utilitarianism sees only pleasure and pain as valuable.
Key Takeaway
Consider broader values beyond happiness.
Themes
ethics
environment
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental activism
- education curricula
- personal lifestyle choices
Key Concepts
intrinsic value
utilitarian calculus
Questions to Reflect On
- Should nature have rights beyond human benefit?
- How can we integrate ecological value into moral frameworks?
A Different Perspective
Utilitarianism may neglect rights and duties independent of outcomes.
![“Nineteen thousand children [are] dying every day. Does it really matter that we're not walking past them in the street? Does it really matter that they're far away? I don't think it does make a morally relevant difference.” quote by Peter Singer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cc1/peter-singer-1001_children_nineteen-thousand-children-are-dying-eve_33961.jpg)
