Literature Question

Write a five page essay in which you (a) present a detailed moral scenario, (b) concisely explain the moral theory articulated by Mill in Utilitarianism, (c) use that explanation to assess your moral scenario, and (d) evaluate the theory: identify one problem a reasonable person can raise for Mill’s utilitarian ethics and explain how the utilitarian can respond to the problem.

You have a great deal of latitude in developing your scenario. You may present a dilemma, a specific action, or a way of life. The scenario may be taken from history, from fiction, or from your own imagination. It is crucial, however, that you choose a scenario which allows you to explain and evaluate the essential features of Mill’s moral view. A successful essay will (1) present a scenario suitable for moral assessment, (2) articulate a clear understanding of what is central to Mill’s moral view and its justifying arguments, (3) assess the scenario in a way that exhibits that clear understanding, and (4) evaluate the grounds of this assessment thoughtfully.