An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation
Quick Summary
An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation is a foundational work by Jeremy Bentham that establishes the principle of utilitarianism. Bentham argued that human beings are governed by pleasure and pain, and that actions are right if they increase the net surplus of pleasure over pain, and wrong if they decrease it. He proposed that the consequences of actions should be weighed equally for everyone affected, stating, "Each to count for one, and none for more than one." Bentham's ethical system aimed to reform morality by applying this single principle consistently across all areas of life, focusing on normative ethics—determining which actions are right or wrong.12
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common lawBenthamHis basic work, An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation, did not appear until 1789.
Read MoreHis basic work, An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation, did not appear until 1789.
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utilitarianismGrowth of classical English utilitarianismBentham’s major philosophical work, An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation (1789), was designed as an introduction to a plan of a penal code.
Read MoreBentham’s major philosophical work, An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation (1789), was designed as an introduction to a plan of a penal code.
Read More