Lecture on Rule Utilitarianism by Dr. Stansel

Introduction

• Focus on Rule Utilitarianism, a form of utilitarianism.
• Distinction from Act Utilitarianism, though both aim for the greatest overall happiness.

Act Utilitarianism

• Situationalist moral theory: decisions made on a case-by-case basis.
• Goal: Do what brings about the greatest overall happiness in each situation.

Rule Utilitarianism

• Rules-based approach: Follow moral rules that, if universally followed, bring about the greatest happiness.
• Can result in outcomes that do not maximize happiness in individual cases but aim for long-term overall happiness.

Key Elements of Rule Utilitarianism

1. Greatest Happiness Principle:

   • Follow moral rules that would create the greatest overall happiness if adopted by everyone.
   • Sometimes involves sacrificing personal or immediate happiness for long-term overall happiness.

2. Happiness Calculus:

   • Consider alternative moral rules and assess the happiness each would produce if universally followed.
   • Different from act utilitarianism, which scores specific actions.
   • Example used: Legalization of same-sex marriage.

3. Higher and Lower Pleasures:

   • Higher Pleasures: Intellectual pleasures (e.g., learning, art, religion).
   • Lower Pleasures: Bodily or sensual pleasures (e.g., eating, sleeping).
   • Higher pleasures have more weight in happiness calculus.

Application of Rule Utilitarianism

• Steps to apply:

  1. Identify moral question and possible moral rules.
  2. Perform happiness calculus for promising rules.
  3. Apply the greatest happiness principle to determine the best rule.

• Example Application: Same-sex marriage legalization

  • Identify promising moral rules: Legalize or outlaw same-sex marriage.
  • Conduct happiness calculus based on group impact and size.
  • Compare happiness scores to choose a rule.

Writing Up an Answer

• Describe promising rules and affected groups.
• Discuss findings from happiness calculus without detailed scores.
• State and apply the greatest happiness principle.
• Conclude with the rule to follow and its fulfillment of the principle.

Considerations

• Use reputable sources for factual information.
• Include concepts of higher and lower pleasures even if not decisive.
• Ensure all key terms (rule, happiness calculus, higher/lower pleasure, greatest happiness principle) are included in answers.

Conclusion

• Email Dr. Stansel for any questions related to the lecture.