Q1. Critically evaluate Aristotle's views on virtue ethics. Or Discuss in detail Mill's Utilitarianism. Present a critical appraisal of utilitarianism.
Key Points:
- Mill's utilitarianism is a teleological theory focused on maximizing overall happiness.
- The Greatest Happiness Principle states actions are right if they promote happiness.
- Mill distinguished between higher (intellectual) and lower (sensory) pleasures.
- Higher pleasures are intrinsically more valuable, preferred by 'competent judges'.
Answer: John Stuart Mill's utilitarianism is a teleological ethical theory, asserting that the morality of an action is determined by its outcome, specifically its ability to produce the greatest good for the greatest number. Building upon Jeremy Bentham's foundation, Mill refined utilitarianism by introducing a qualitative distinction between pleasures, moving beyond mere quantitative assessment. Mill's core principle, the 'Greatest Happiness Principle,' posits that actions are right in proportion as ...