Philosophy 2801F/G Chapter Notes -Political Philosophy, Experience Machine, Consequentialism
25 Jul 2012
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John rawls begin a survey of contemporary theories o justice. Rawls requires understanding the theory to which he was responding namely, utilitarianism. Society utilitarianism operates as a kind of tacit background against which other theories have to assert and defend themselves. Claims that the morally right act or policy is that which produces the greatest happiness for the members of society. Principles apply the basic structure of society not to the person conduct of individuals. Two features of utilitarianism that makes it an attractive theory of political morality 1. Does not depend on the existence of god or a soul. Utilitarian"s just demand that the pursuit of human welfare or utility be done impartially for everyone in society. Consequentialism its importance is that it requires that we check to see whether the act or policy in question actually does some identifiable good or not. It demands of anyone who condemns something as morally wrong that they show who is wronged.
