John Stuart Mill s Book, Utilitarianism - 870 Words

In John Stuart Mill’s book, Utilitarianism (1863) he challenges many critics that are against his theory. One of which is the claim that Utilitarianism is a swine doctrine. They interpret the theory by saying a humans ultimate goal in life, is that of a swine; pleasure in the absence of pain. It is quite an understandable remark, but definitely is an over analyzed critique, in my opinion. Mill however replies to the critics in grave detail, defending his theory. Although many strengths and weaknesses are apparent, I recognize the higher and lower pleasures response, a very strong reply to a weak critique. Critics argue that utilitarianism is a swine doctrine by comparing the ethical theory, which states there is no greater end then pleasure, to that of the pleasure a swine (pig). This criticism appears as over evaluating a relatively good ethical theory. Critics view utilitarianism as a doctrine, not fit for humans. They state that if people have no desire higher than pleasure than they have the same goal as a pig. They do not think that the meaning of life should merely be reduced to pleasure (Mill, p 10). This is a very clear argument simply denying that life is that simple. Mill’s reply starts off with answering how the Epicureans do. It is not he but those who are accusing him, that view human beings in a degrading and simple-minded view point (Mill, p. 10). He further states that a beast’s pleasure does not satisfy a human’s concept of pleasure. This insinuates thatShow MoreRelatedSusan Wolf s Article Moral Saints And John Stuart Mill s Book Utilitarianism Essay1810 Words   |  8 PagesBoth Susan Wolf’s article â€Å"Moral Saints† and John Stuart Mill’s book â€Å"Utilitarianism† will be discussed here. 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