- Published: September 27, 2022
- Updated: September 27, 2022
- University / College: University of Southern California
- Language: English
- Downloads: 29
Philosophy
Utilitarianism is a philosophical principle that asserts that morally the best course of action is one which brings about the best results. Consequently all measures that led to the attainment of these results should be fulfilled to the fullest irrespective of their effects on other people hence the assertion the ends justify the means. This is a very calculated philosophical ideal that measures the gravity of certain possible outcomes and singles the outcome with the best results. This ideal is appropriate and very applicable in daily life but it has one flaw. it fails to recognize that these methods leading to the best possible outcome could have very negative effects on other people. it fails to recognize that the world consists of other people who might be negatively affected by these methods or even find these4 methods morally insulting.
Utilitarianism is perhaps the most valid principle when it comes to accurate calculations of probability for the best possible outcome. it provides a very clear and vivid picture of the path to follow in pursuit of the best possible outcome. This philosophical ideal however is more inclined towards the needs of the one as opposed to the needs of the many. an example is one person on a quest for the best possible outcome realizing that the means to achieve this outcome would be to kill every other human being in the world. by utilitarian standards this is totally acceptable as long as this one person reaches his main goal of the best possible outcome. The needs of the many are relegated to the sideline paving way for the needs of the one. This introduces a hint of selfishness as far as utilitarianism is concerned and its general scope and objectives.