Ggh2605
assignment 1
detailed answers
semester 1 2025
distinction
guaranteed
ADMIN
JAMESC
, Question 1: Use the search function on YouTube or Google to find a short
video clip to orientate yourself on the concept and various aspects of
Utilitarianism. Suggested search terms could include “Utilitarianism and the
natural environment” For your convenience, a recommended resource is
detailed below: Title of the video: What is utilitarianism? (2022) Click on the
following link: Length of video: 3.58 minutes Compile a list of the important
aspects of the concept of utilitarianism and consider how these aspects are
related to the way we interact with nature and the environment. 10 Marks
Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that suggests that the moral worth of an action is
determined by its overall utility or happiness it produces. Here are some key aspects of
utilitarianism:
1. Greatest Happiness Principle: The core idea is to maximize overall happiness or
pleasure and minimize suffering. Actions are morally right if they lead to the greatest
happiness for the greatest number.
2. Consequentialism: Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory, meaning the morality of
an action is judged by its outcomes.
3. Quantifiable Happiness: Utilitarianism often involves the idea of quantifying happiness
or pleasure, which can be challenging in practice.
4. Impartiality: Utilitarianism emphasizes impartiality, meaning that each person's
happiness is equally valuable, without favoritism.
5. Utility Calculus: Decisions involve a calculation of the overall utility, considering the
intensity, duration, certainty, and other factors of happiness or suffering.
In terms of the natural environment:
1. Anthropocentrism vs. Ecocentrism: Utilitarianism, when applied to environmental
ethics, may face challenges in balancing human-centric and ecocentric values.
2. Resource Allocation: Utilitarian considerations may impact how resources are
allocated, with a focus on maximizing overall environmental and human well-being.
3. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Happiness: Balancing short-term gains with long-term
sustainability is a challenge, as some environmental decisions may lead to immediate
happiness but have negative long-term consequences.
4. Intrinsic Value of Nature: Critics argue that utilitarianism may not adequately
recognize the intrinsic value of nature, viewing it merely as a means to human ends.
Page 1 of 7
assignment 1
detailed answers
semester 1 2025
distinction
guaranteed
ADMIN
JAMESC
, Question 1: Use the search function on YouTube or Google to find a short
video clip to orientate yourself on the concept and various aspects of
Utilitarianism. Suggested search terms could include “Utilitarianism and the
natural environment” For your convenience, a recommended resource is
detailed below: Title of the video: What is utilitarianism? (2022) Click on the
following link: Length of video: 3.58 minutes Compile a list of the important
aspects of the concept of utilitarianism and consider how these aspects are
related to the way we interact with nature and the environment. 10 Marks
Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that suggests that the moral worth of an action is
determined by its overall utility or happiness it produces. Here are some key aspects of
utilitarianism:
1. Greatest Happiness Principle: The core idea is to maximize overall happiness or
pleasure and minimize suffering. Actions are morally right if they lead to the greatest
happiness for the greatest number.
2. Consequentialism: Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory, meaning the morality of
an action is judged by its outcomes.
3. Quantifiable Happiness: Utilitarianism often involves the idea of quantifying happiness
or pleasure, which can be challenging in practice.
4. Impartiality: Utilitarianism emphasizes impartiality, meaning that each person's
happiness is equally valuable, without favoritism.
5. Utility Calculus: Decisions involve a calculation of the overall utility, considering the
intensity, duration, certainty, and other factors of happiness or suffering.
In terms of the natural environment:
1. Anthropocentrism vs. Ecocentrism: Utilitarianism, when applied to environmental
ethics, may face challenges in balancing human-centric and ecocentric values.
2. Resource Allocation: Utilitarian considerations may impact how resources are
allocated, with a focus on maximizing overall environmental and human well-being.
3. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Happiness: Balancing short-term gains with long-term
sustainability is a challenge, as some environmental decisions may lead to immediate
happiness but have negative long-term consequences.
4. Intrinsic Value of Nature: Critics argue that utilitarianism may not adequately
recognize the intrinsic value of nature, viewing it merely as a means to human ends.
Page 1 of 7
