PHL201H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 22: Instrumental And Value Rationality, Political Philosophy, Legislature
Document Summary
Would decide based on best consequences for everyone i. e. would save 5 rather than the 1: translated to political philosophy: government is legitimate to extent that it does [blank] for everyone. The constitutional structure/economic policies are justified to extent that they increase utility on average for everyone. Basic idea: you should regard it as legitimate to the extent that government provides you with right level of services and rights. How well government acts according to principle of utility: ex: are current levels of taxation legitimate: Do these powers increase happiness for everyone. We don"t ask if they violate the fundamental rights to people. Rather we ask, does having this practice in place result in greatest happiness for people on average. Deontological/rights-based theory: how well government serves fundamental human rights, carding: If yes, then have to end the practice. So even if everyone has better happiness on average w/ the practice, still violate rights.
