Philosophy Instructions: Please answer all of the following questions in order, with a reply of
+/- 300 words for each. There is no need for an introduction or bibliography;
paraphrase or quote from the primary texts as needed and give in-text references,
e.g. (Kant, Groundwork, p.11). References are not included in the word count.
Completed assignments should be uploaded to the dropbox by the due date
specified in the course calendar.
(1) Briefly describe the Greatest Happiness Principle (2 sentences at most). Then
consider one objection to utilitarianism; explain the objection, and how Mill could
reply to that objection.
(2) Briefly describe Kant's Categorical Imperative (2 sentences at most). Then
consider one objection to Kant's ethics, and how Kant could reply to that objection.
(3) Describe a scenario (either of your own invention, or a real-life case from a
reputable source such as a reliable news organization) which utilitarians and
Kantians would disagree about. Lay out your scenario clearly; then specify what
utilitarians would say is the right thing to do and why, and what Kantians would say
is the right thing and why.
(4) Judgement time: on reflection, do you endorse the utilitarian or the Kantian
position? Why? Justify your answer.