Philosophy

Philosophy Study Guide

10.11 Mill: Justice is what Promotes the General Welfare Mill explored the utilitarian perspective on ethics in which he believed we determine moral rightness or goodness by calculating which course of action will bring about the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people (and conversely, which course of action will result in the avoidance of unhappiness for the greatest number of people). Mill’s views on social justice and liberty are based directly on his ethical theory. Justice on the social and political level is what best promotes the well- being and public interest of the greatest number of citizens. The core principle of social justice is, in Mill’s terms, the principle of social utility. Social utility is referred to as the principle advanced by utilitarian’s that justice is produced by the form of government that creates the greatest social benefit for the greatest number of people. Mill recognized that viewing justice as being equivalent to social utility, that is, calculating the maximum social benefits, does not capture the intuitive conviction and moral passion that most people associate with justice. Mill acknowledged that for most people, the concept of justice has a uniquely imperative power. It is a concept so fundamental to our way of thinking that it is commonly thought to be a primal instinct. Mill contends one of the major differences between humans and animals is that we can apply our intellect to arriving at the most enlightened conclusions, whether or not our emotions or instincts are in accord. However, once our reasoning abilities elevate our understanding, our emotions and instincts often follow along behind. ● Mill considers several different meanings of justice which included: ● Justice means not depriving someone of his personal liberty, property, or possession which belongs to him by law ● Justice means not disobeying any law in society, even if you disagree with it or consider it to be unjust ● Justice means each person receiving the good or evil that they deserve ● Justice means honoring agreements and telling the truth ● Justice means acting impartially, not showing preference ● Justice means treating others with equality In summary, Mill’s concept of justice involves two elements: A rule of conduct common to all humankind and intended for their good and the sentiment that punishment may be suffered by those who infringe upon the rule, because this is in the interest of both individuals and society as a whole. According to Mill, both dimensions of justice necessarily involve the principle of social utility and leads Mill to explore his true passion individual liberty. Mills believed that the ultimate purpose of government and its laws is to allow individuals to fully realize themselves through their free unconstrained choices. Mills is convinced that the principle of social utility that forms the foundation of his philosophy promoting the public welfare for the greatest number of citizens- is best achieved by maximizing the individual liberty of each member of the community. In Mill’s writing from On Liberty, he discusses his core belief clearly by stating “Whatever an individual chooses to do is his or her absolute and irrevocable right, provided it does not interfere or harm others.” Even if we are convinced that people are acting foolishly, self-destructively, or recklessly, we have no right to intervene and compel them to do otherwise-provided that they pose no threat to others. We may certainly attempt to persuade and reason with them, but beyond that we must respect their autonomy to freely choose. Mill believed that all notions of justice and rights are ultimately reducible to the principle of social utility. People should be permitted and encouraged to exercise their full liberty

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