Benthamand utilitarianism in the early nineteenth century

Abstract

This work delves into the utilitarian praxis of Jeremy Bentham, emphasizing the connection between his philosophical theories and their practical applications. Bentham’s ethical framework, centered around the principle of maximizing happiness, extended to his political and legal philosophies, where he advocated for law and governance designed to promote the greatest happiness of individuals. The author explores Bentham’s theory of interest, the basis of his ethics, and his analysis of motives, arguing that the core of his philosophy is a pursuit of general happiness without the concept of disinterested motives. Furthermore, the author investigates Bentham’s ideas on law, punishment, and the role of representatives in achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Following Bentham’s life, it delves into his failure to enact the panopticon, his collaboration with Pierre-Étienne-Louis Dumont on disseminating utilitarian ideas in Europe, and the reception of his works. The author concludes with Bentham’s political pursuits, his dispute with James Mill, and his effort to create a comprehensive code of law based on utilitarian principles. – AI-generated abstract.