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Utilitarianism and Other Essays

By John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham
Penguin Classics
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Utilitarianism and Other Essays delves into the philosophical theories of utilitarianism, addressing the principles of achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number. John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham present insightful essays exploring the ethical implications and practical applications of this moral philosophy. The collection examines how utilitarian thought can be applied to societal issues, offering a foundational perspective on ethics and justice.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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If you're fascinated by ethical theories that aim to maximise happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people, you might enjoy this influential collection of essays. It delves into the core ideas of utilitarian philosophy, particularly through the perspectives of two of its leading thinkers, offering valuable insights into moral reasoning and the pursuit of social justice.

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Utilitarianism propounds the view that the value or rightness of an action rests in how well it promotes the welfare of those affected by it, aiming for 'the greatest happiness of the greatest number'. This book shows the creation and development of a system of ethics that has had an enduring influence on moral philosophy and legislative policy.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

From: An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation (Jeremy Bentham)

From: A System of Logic (J.S. Mill)

Bentham (J.S. Mill)

Coleridge (J.S. Mill)

Whewell on Moral Philosophy (J.S. Mill)

Utilitarianism (J.S. Mill)

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Utilitarianism and Other Essays is highly regarded for presenting the foundational texts of utilitarian philosophy by two of its most prominent thinkers, John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham. Readers often appreciate its clear articulation of utilitarian principles, though some find it challenging due to the complex philosophical concepts discussed. The collection is valued for providing insight into ethical theory and historical context, making it a significant resource for both philosophy students and enthusiasts.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140432725

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 26 March 1987

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Edited by Alan Ryan

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 259g

Pages: 352

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About the Author

John Stuart Mill (1806 - 73) formed the Utilitarian Society which met to read and discuss essays. His works include On LIberty and Principles of Political Economy. Jeremy Bentham (1748 - 1832) set out to theorize a simple and equitable legal system. The law of utility, for which is best remembered, states that the goodness of a law can be measured in accordance with the measure in which it subserves the happiness of hte individual. Alan Ryan is Warden of New College, Oxford and is currently on sabbatical in Stanford. His other books include Property and Political Theory and Bertrand Russell- A Political Life.

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