Question

What is utilitarianism and what is its influence on economics (including contemporary economics)? What are the principles laid down by Jeremy Bentham? How does “Those Who Walk Away from Omelas” (Le Guin 1973) relate to utilitarianism?

Answer 1

1. Utilitarianism is a family of consequentialist ethical theories that promotes actions that maximize happiness and well-being for the affected individuals.
2. According to an economic point of view,the society presents with two very different types of economy- pain economy and a pleasure economy.Pleasure economy enhances the trust within the people leading to the boosting of economy.
3. According to Bentham,pleasure and pain govern not only how humanbeings act but also how human beings ought to act.The principle of utility or the principle of utilitarian:"I ought do that act which will bring about the greatest happiness(pleasure)for the greatest number of persons(the community)".
4. The story of the OnesWho Walk Away From Omelas relate to Utilitarianism because one child is suffering so that the entire town can enjoy happiness and perfect lives.The child that sits in the small broom closet has barely enough room to move and is just getting by with enough food and water to survive.Because he suffers and goes through the pain he goes through,everyone else can be happy and worry free in their everyday lives.According to Utilitarianism, the pain and suffering the child is going through could be justified and even seen as a moral act on his part because so many other people are benefitting off his situation.