The Flaw of Utilitarianism

Philosophers Bentham and James Mill developed an ethical theory, utilitarianism, proposing that all action should be directed toward achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. Utilitarians further argue that achieving the greatest happiness overall is not only the right thing to do for society but also moral. Although this theory is applicable in many situations, when one takes a closer look it is clear to see that utilitarianism is immoral. To argue …

…against utilitarianism. However, despite that rarity of desert island cases, the principal behind the argument is still valid. In conclusion, because torturing the professor is immoral, regardless of whether or not it creates the greatest amount of overall happiness, utilitarianism, the theory that one should do whatever creates the greatest amounts of happiness, is also immoral. Works Cited: American Heritage. March 3, 2006 (http://www.answers.com/topic/morality) Basic Argument for Utilitarianism. Pojman, Louis (Ethical Theory)