Publisher's Synopsis
Utilitarianism is a philosophical work written by John Stuart Mill, first published in 1863. In this book, Mill argues that the ethical theory of utilitarianism is the most appropriate approach to moral decision-making. Utilitarianism is based on the principle of maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering for the greatest number of people. Mill argues that this principle should guide all ethical decisions, and that actions should be evaluated based on their ability to promote the greatest good for the greatest number of people.Mill also addresses objections to utilitarianism, including the idea that it is a cold and calculating philosophy that ignores individual rights and freedoms. He argues that utilitarianism can be compatible with individual rights, and that it can be used to promote social justice and equality. Mill also discusses the role of pleasure and pain in ethical decision-making, and the importance of considering long-term consequences when making decisions.Utilitarianism has been a highly influential work in the field of ethics, and has been the subject of much debate and criticism. It remains an important text for anyone interested in moral philosophy, and continues to be studied and discussed by scholars and students around the world.We are continually informed that Utility is an uncertain standard, which every different person interprets differently, and that there is no safety but in the immutable, ineffaceable, and unmistakable dictates of justice, which carry their evidence in themselves, and are independent of the fluctuations of opinion. One would suppose from this that on questions of justice there could be no controversy; that if we take that for our rule, its application to any given case could leave us in as little doubt as a mathematical demonstration.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
