Greg Detre
16 May 00
utilitarianism doesn�t need to have any particular prudential theory
rule � util-generalisation
imprecise notion of disaster � what constitutes an exception
rule consequentialism ???
promise-keeping = pointless in an act utilitarian society � same for truth
because you only tell what it�s utilitarian to tell someone
�/span> breakdown of communication
Sidgwick � 2 classes of people (theorists + non-theorists)
indifference to social transparency
is autonomy reduced by act utilitarianism?
Williams crit: boundaries of the different levels
Scanlon: levels = continuous with each other
rule utilitarianism
too conservative
sensitive to disaster/exception
look out for conflict (Mill multi-level)
ideal code of rules might be different to existing code
rule-worshipper
no act utilitarian
self-effacing
rule consequentialism
right �/span> action�s effect complies to rule
rules set on consequentialist criteria
but the problem = with rules + conseequences, not with utilitarianism
consequences incl rights/justice � violating behaviour, rather than utility or prudential value = circular
Mill � multi-level (only need to calculate utility when the 2 principles conflict)
or act utilitarian?
criterion vs decision procedure
Mill would sometimes endorse sub-optimal acts
schizophrenic double-mindedness
undermines customary morality
impartial benevolence = unnatural
altruism as a secondary principle
counter-intuitive results
my axe-wielding maniac example
sanctioning murder, which doesn�t � utilitarian results
rights � justice
we�re going to DROP tutorial 5
read Phiippa Foot
what makes a theory utilitarian?
right �/span> causal consequences on Happiness/welfare
either rule utilitarianism �/span> act (otherwise where draw the line of exceptions?)
or � incoherent, = rule ocnsequentialism (different theory of Good)
parallel between double-level morality and the classical-quantum breakdown