It is reasonable to link morality with the pursuit of happiness and the avoidance of pain and misery.
Utilitarianism offers democratic morality that promotes general happiness and opposes individual pursuits.
It's consequentialism is a strength, as when we act it is natural to weigh up the consequences
It is straight forward and based on the single principle of minimising pain and maximising happiness
The idea of promoting the 'well being' of the greatest number is important.
It's a common sense system that doesn't require special wisdom.
It is natural to consider the consequences of our actions when deciding what to do.
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WEAKNESSES
It fails to consider different views on what happiness is.
The problem of justice: utilitarianism doesn't set out how that pleasure is distributed.
It seems to ignore the importance of duty. An act may be right of wrong for reasons other than the amount of pain or pleasure produced.
It is difficult to quanitfy pleasure.
It could be classed as impersonal as it does not consider the rights of individuals in its attempt to look to 'the greater good'.
The emphasis on pleasure and happiness may cause problems as if I seek my own happiness it is impossible for me to seek general happiness and do what I ought to.
It relies on knowledge of consequences, but these may not be known until years into the future.
Some pain is good for us and some pleasures may be bad.
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