Moral Principles Under Utilitarianism

Paper Summary:

After taking the necessary step of considering and modifying the phrasing of the statement, and defining the "right" moral principles under a utilitarian system, the paper begins by discussing Mill's "sanctions" of his morality. The concept of "conscience" and the essential social nature of mankind is also discussed and found to be useful in the debate.

From the Paper:

"Furthermore, the "bribes and threats" element of the statement is similar to the legal and political systems of any civilized country. For example, the "bribes" could be the incentive of a health system or an armed defense force in return for a member of society paying their taxes, while the threats are the punishments legislated for breaking the law, which in this case is effectively refusal to adopt the right moral principles as defined by society. It cannot be denied that both the bribes and threats are necessary for the smooth and orderly running of society, to make sure those who do not adopt the right morals do not profit over those who do. While they may not make them truly adopt these moral principles, these threats should at least make them superficially conform to them."

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