PBPL 004 Lecture Notes - Consequentialism, Individualism, Justice As Fairness
Document Summary
Consequentialist vs deontological approaches- the end vs the motive. Core tenets of utilitarianism & how they relate to real pp. Fundamental right to liberty for each person- everyone has the right to do whatever they want with their property providing they don"t infringe on others rights to do the same. Both based on the principle of human freedom not on efficiency. Different versions exist: argues for minimalist state, government action is immoral except to: enforce contracts, protect private property from theft, and maintain the peace. No paternalism- opposed to laws seeking to protect people from themselves (ex. sugar/soda taxes, seatbelt laws) No redistribution of income or wealth: opposed to laws that require redistribution of wealth. Individuals should decide what to do with their wealth: redistributive taxes are a form of coercion. No morals legislation: opposed to laws that promote notions of virtue/morals of the majority. John locke (1632-1704) british political philosopher- foundations of liberalism.
