Classical Utilitarianism

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It’s only second nature to ask oneself, “What is the right thing to do?” simply for the reason that it is the foundation to making a moral decision. As a society we have to make these decisions because they are vital to living in an indefectible world. I will attest that classical utilitarianism is the most logical moral theory for the sake of the greater good being the only intrinsically valuable thing because it supplies us with the most opportunities to improve welfare. Classical utilitarianism belongs to the family of moral theories called consequentialism. Consequentialism summarizes actions as being morally obligatory because it yields the best results. Classical (act) utilitarian’s believe that the total well-being is the only …show more content…

In conclusion, classical utilitarianism contrasts from other close views such as The Kantian Perspective of Fairness and Justice. The reason that the Kantian Perspective is contradicting to classical utilitarianism being the perspective is narrowed towards oneself rather than the overall well-being. I support classical utilitarianism in the interest of the greater good; the Kantian perspective, in my opinion, focuses solely on an individual’s welfare alternatively than the community’s welfare. Torture is prevalent in present-day, especially in war, because it is going against the common natural law of morality. Classical utilitarian’s are more open to this idea, considering that it advances our protection and countries well-being. According to the typical Kantian Perspective defender, torture is wrong due to the unfair treatment and injustice it provides. Although some things such as torture seem immoral, they overall benefit us as a nation …show more content…

When the concept of classical utilitarianism is understood, the theory almost inevitably becomes more visible in modern day circumstances. For instance, act utilitarianism is demonstrated in the TV show Breaking Bad; Walter White, the show’s most prominent character, is diagnosed with cancer and is faced with a crucial decision to become a notorious meth manufacturer. The greater good of his family is the driving force for Walter’s behavior and decisions. Walter White would be considered a classical utilitarian because his participation with illegal activities to secure financial stability for his family is the overall right thing to do. The film industry frequently uses act utilitarianism to teach us that essentially as a society we should focus on the greater good. As a culture we act upon what we observe through relatable life experiences and what we are exposed to through pop

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