Utilitarian Ethics

by Anthony Quinton

Anthony Quinton's concise study of utilitarianism, which has been long been unavailable, is generally acknowledged as the best introduction to the subject. This edition includes a new preface surveying recent developments.
The book begins with a definition of utilitarianism, and goes on to consider hedonism as a criterion of value and theory of motivation. Early hedonism is surveyed, followed by the emergence of utilitarianism proper with Hume, Tucker and Paley. The contributions of Bentham, James Mill and J.S. Mill are analyzed, with particular attention to J.S. Mill’s arguments concerning the sanction of morality, the proof of the principle of utility and the question of justice and utility. The criticisms of Grote, Sidgwick, Moore and later writers are also appraised.

Genres: Philosophy

123 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 1988

About the author

Anthony Meredith Quinton, Baron Quinton, FBA was an English political and moral philosopher, metaphysician, and materialist philosopher of mind. He served as President of Trinity College, Oxford from 1978 to 1987; and as chairman of the board of the British Library from 1985 to 1990. He is also remembered as a presenter of the BBC Radio programme Round Britain Quiz.

Reviews

[Helena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although the final 3rd is essentially a burnbook dedicated to Mill, this book certainly made me think if nothing else. I definetly didn't agree with everything, but as an introduction to utilitarian ethics it was very well researched and very well referenced.