This chapter introduces a theory of value, which is essential for a comprehensive and self-sufficient unified utilitarian theory. Utilitarianism, which posits that the ultimate criterion for morality is maximal utility, reduces to maximizing aggregate or social utility, a function of values. The chapter emphasizes that "good" is used to describe positive values and is central to moral philosophy, which focuses on what is good or bad.
The diversity and controversy surrounding the concept of "good" are attributed to the vague and uncertain nature of philosophical terms compared to those in the physical sciences. Philosophers often use definitions of "good" to justify their ethical theories, leading to a wide range of interpretations. The chapter also discusses the relative and absolute senses of "good" and "bad," suggesting that the absolute sense, where an average is used as a standard for comparison, is more useful for clarity. The author recommends sticking to the absolute sense to avoid confusion and clarify the role of the average in moral judgments.This chapter introduces a theory of value, which is essential for a comprehensive and self-sufficient unified utilitarian theory. Utilitarianism, which posits that the ultimate criterion for morality is maximal utility, reduces to maximizing aggregate or social utility, a function of values. The chapter emphasizes that "good" is used to describe positive values and is central to moral philosophy, which focuses on what is good or bad.
The diversity and controversy surrounding the concept of "good" are attributed to the vague and uncertain nature of philosophical terms compared to those in the physical sciences. Philosophers often use definitions of "good" to justify their ethical theories, leading to a wide range of interpretations. The chapter also discusses the relative and absolute senses of "good" and "bad," suggesting that the absolute sense, where an average is used as a standard for comparison, is more useful for clarity. The author recommends sticking to the absolute sense to avoid confusion and clarify the role of the average in moral judgments.