Introduction Jeremy Bentham occupies a seminal position in the history of modern political and legal thought as the founder of classical utilitarianism and one of the most influential proponents of legal and administrative reform. Rejecting the natural law tradition, social contract theories, and appeals to abstract natural rights, Bentham sought to construct a scientific and … Continue reading Critically analyse Bentham’s principle of utility as the normative foundation of his political and legal philosophy, and evaluate the relationship between psychological hedonism and ethical utilitarianism.
Tag: Public Policy
The Relevance of Mill’s Thought in the 21st Century – Can His Liberalism Address Contemporary Crises?
John Stuart Mill’s political philosophy remains influential in the 21st century, addressing contemporary issues like populism, misinformation, economic inequality, and climate change. However, his ideas need adaptation to counter challenges such as surveillance, digital misinformation, and weakened democratic norms. A revised Millian approach could combine his principles with modern policy solutions.
Mill’s Ethical and Political Philosophy – Can Utilitarianism Guide Modern Public Policy?
John Stuart Mill's utilitarianism refines Bentham's model by emphasizing higher pleasures and prioritizing individual liberty. While it provides a rational framework for policymaking focused on collective happiness, criticisms highlight risks to minority rights and moral absolutes. Mill’s ideas remain influential, but require integration with other ethical frameworks for just governance.