Religion and Ethics - Utilitarianism Terms - Flashcards in A Level and IB Religious Studies

Created by: Louise :)
Created on: 27-12-12 18:50

Act utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that focuses on the affects of each individual act.

1 of 15

Rule utilitarianism

A version of utilitarianism that creates general rules to promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Strong rules must be kept but weak rules can have exceptions.

2 of 15

Quantitative pleasures

The value of pleasure depends on the quantity, extent and duration of the pleasure. The more people happier for longer, the better.

3 of 15

Qualitative pleasures

The value of pleasure depends on quality of the pleasure. Higher pleasures of the mind (philosophy) are better than low pleasures of the body (sex).

4 of 15

Teleological thinking

Thinking about aiming for a certain 'goal' such as happiness.

5 of 15

Deontological thinking

Thinking about completing your 'duty' such as the duty to not lie.

6 of 15

Motavation

Bentham's motivation was to seek pleasure and avoid pain. This is influenced by human nature.

7 of 15

Greatest happiness principle (GHP)

The greatest happiness for the greatest number. Either the individual or society.

8 of 15

Hedonic calculus

Betham's way of balancing out the pleasure and pain the consequences that an action could bring about.

9 of 15

Harm principle

Used by Mill to protect the minority from abuse.

10 of 15

Rules

Mill agreed to follow general rules to promote the GHP or break them when breaking the rule leads on the GHP.

11 of 15

Higher and lower pleasures

Mill believed that we should aim for higher pleasures of the mind (literature) rather than lower pleasures of the body (alcohol). Once you've experienced both types of pleasure, you become a compentant judge.

12 of 15

Consequentialist

When what is right or wrong depends on the consequences of an action.

13 of 15

Relative

When what is right or wrong depends on the each individual situation.

14 of 15

Secular

Not based on religion or religious teachings.

15 of 15

Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Rule utilitarianism

Back

A version of utilitarianism that creates general rules to promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Strong rules must be kept but weak rules can have exceptions.

Card 3

Front

Quantitative pleasures

Back

Card 4

Front

Qualitative pleasures

Back

Card 5

Front

Teleological thinking

Back

View more cards

Similar Religious Studies resources:

See all Religious Studies resources »

See all Ethics resources »

Get Revising

Religion and Ethics - Utilitarianism Terms