Bentham's Hedonic or Utility Calculus

'The greatest good for the greatest number (pleasure)'

• Bentham believed by using this calculus it was possible to measure the amount of pleasure or pain that an action will bring about. This is referred to as act utilitarianism.

• The main thing to consider when carrying out an action for Bentham is the amount of happiness or pleasure that will come from the action.

• Laws or rules are of secondary importance.

• Many people make a utilitarian judgement when confronted by a moral dilemma

• For example, 'to speed or not to speed' judgement is made on the basis of pleasure (speeding will get you quicker to your destination…