Question

Do you think that there should be equal opportunity in a just society? What would you mean by this phrase? Do you think that it is a realizable ideal? Describe John Stuart Mill’s concept of utilitarianism. Do you see any advantages or disadvantages of applying this to our society?

Answer 1

In a society, it is less likely that equal opportunities will be provided to different people. This is mostly because of the debate between equality and equity. This means that sections of the society which are marginalised and did not get an opportunity to prosper due to the intentional discrimination against them deserve to get more opportunities in order to compensate for this loss. This is especially true in complex societies wherein layers exist in the socioeconomic domain. For instance, in countries like India wherein caste-ism is propagated, it is only suitable that they get more opportunities in order to prosper and reach at par with the community. In a case otherwise, the marginalised sections will be subdued and they may not be visible, taking away their voices.

According to Mill, good actions result in pleasure, and that there is no higher end than pleasure. Mill says that good actions lead to pleasure and define good character. Mill can be characterized as an act utilitarian in regard to the theory of objective rightness, but as a rule utilitarian in regard to the theory of moral obligation. He defines morality as a system of rules that is protected by sanctions. The principle of utility is not a part of this system, but its fundamental justification.