PSYCH 330 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Experience Machine, Preference Utilitarianism, If And Only If
2 Oct 2018
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Utilitarianism: you should x iff x maximizes utility. Hedonic utilitarianism: utility=happiness (or pleasure and absence of pain) Form of objections: x maximizes utility, but x is wrong. Not defending hedonic utilitarianism, giving up on original theory. Important details: permanent, better life a: hedonics would say to plug in, morally obligated, replies. Does x really maximize utility: not contributing, friends and family, not happy, perpetuating the human race. Example: desire that your spouse to be faithful: not a good idea, your desires will not be satisfied, even though you will believe they are, justice and rights, example: peeping tom-look at perspective of happiness i. Peeping tom keeps getting happy; other person never knows: replies. Does x really maximize utility: chance of getting caught: massive hit to utility if caught, regret/guilt. Details: your kid is not that bright/not popular, neighbor"s kid is popular, bright, everyone loves him.
