6

Set 2: Central Ideas (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The following text discusses the philosophy of Utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that states that the best action is the one that maximizes utility. 'Utility' is defined in various ways, usually in terms of the well-being of sentient entities. Jeremy Bentham, the founder of utilitarianism, described utility as the sum of all pleasure that results from an action, minus the suffering of anyone involved in the action. Therefore, the moral worth of an action is determined solely by its contribution to overall happiness.

According to Jeremy Bentham's definition, how is the moral worth of an action determined?

A. By the intentions of the person performing the action
B. By strict adherence to a set of divine laws
C. By the action's contribution to overall happiness (net pleasure)✓ Correct
D. By whether the action respects individual rights regardless of the outcome

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text summarizes Bentham's view: utility is 'sum of all pleasure... minus the suffering' and moral worth is determined 'solely by its contribution to overall happiness.'

Key Evidence:

• "sum of all pleasure... minus the suffering"

• "contribution to overall happiness"

Why others are wrong: A (Irrelevant to utilitarianism (consequentialist)), B (Irrelevant), D (Describes Deontology, not Utilitarianism).

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