Can he prove utilitarianism to be true? John Stuart Mill Can he prove utilitarianism to be true?

Key Questions How does Mill attempt to prove the Greatest Happiness Principle? How successful is he?

We should always do what causes the greatest happiness What reasons could you give to support this conclusion?

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it.

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it. So, we know that something is desirable if people desire it.

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it. So, we know that something is desirable if people desire it. Each person desires his own happiness.

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it. So, we know that something is desirable if people desire it. Each person desires his own happiness. Therefore, each person’s happiness is desirable.

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it. So, we know that something is desirable if people desire it. Each person desires his own happiness. Therefore, each person’s happiness is desirable. Therefore, the general happiness is desirable for the aggregate of all persons.

Proving the Greatest Happiness Principle We know something is visible if people see it. Similarly, we know something is audible if people hear it. So, we know that something is desirable if people desire it. Each person desires his own happiness. Therefore, each person’s happiness is desirable. Therefore, the general happiness is desirable for the aggregate of all persons. Identify the flaws in Mill’s argument

1. Equivocation

On your whiteboard: Define the word “yellow”

2. The Naturalistic Fallacy

3. The Fallacy of Composition

Key Questions 1. In your planner, can you remember the premises of the argument? How does Mill attempt to prove the Greatest Happiness Principle? How successful is he? 2. Take it in turns with your friend to explain the criticisms. Fill in anything they miss.