Read Chapter 2 And Watch Week 3 Lectures Choose A Contempora

Read Chapter 2 And Watch Week 3 Lectures Choose A Contemporary Moral

Read Chapter 2 and watch Week 3 Lectures. Choose a contemporary moral issue in our society (course materials) and apply the ethical principle of Utilitarianism to approve this moral issue. You must pick a moral issue that you strongly support and apply the utilitarian claims (course materials) to back up your arguments. The paper must be done in MLA format with a minimum of 500 words (quotes are not included in the word count). This assignment is due on January 26th (10 Points off per day late). You must apply Bentham/Mill's "Principle of Utility" (week 3 Lecture) for 50 points and Bentham's Felicific Calculus for 50 points (under course materials).

Paper For Above instruction

Utilitarianism, as a normative ethical theory, emphasizes the maximization of overall happiness and the minimization of suffering. It provides a framework for evaluating moral issues based on their consequences, rather than intrinsic moral rights or duties. This essay aims to apply the utilitarian principles, specifically Bentham and Mill's "Principle of Utility" and Bentham's Felicific Calculus, to a contemporary moral issue that I strongly support: universal healthcare. By analyzing this issue through the lens of utilitarian ethics, I will demonstrate how it leads to the greatest good for the greatest number, thus substantiating my moral stance.

The concept of utilitarianism was formally articulated by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, who argued that actions are morally right if they promote happiness and reduce suffering. The "Principle of Utility" posits that the morally correct action is the one that maximizes overall utility, defined as pleasure or happiness and the absence of pain or suffering (Bentham, 1789; Mill, 1863). Applying this to universal healthcare, the implementation of a national system ensures that healthcare resources are accessible to all, thereby reducing health disparities and suffering caused by illness or untreated conditions.

Utilitarian justification for universal healthcare is compelling. When healthcare is universally available, more individuals receive necessary medical treatment, leading to improved overall health outcomes and increased happiness. The reduction in preventable deaths, improved quality of life, and increased productivity contribute to societal well-being. Moreover, the financial burden of medical expenses is alleviated for individuals, which reduces stress and suffering associated with healthcare costs (Culyer & Wagstaff, 2012). From a utilitarian perspective, these benefits collectively outweigh the costs associated with establishing and maintaining such a system.

Utilitarian calculus requires a systematic evaluation of pleasure versus pain resulting from a policy. Bentham's Felicific Calculus provides a detailed method of assessing the net utility generated by an action based on factors such as intensity, duration, certainty, and extent of pleasures and pains (Bentham, 1789). When applied to universal healthcare, the positive considerations include the increased health and happiness of the populace, the social stability derived from equitable access, and the reduction of suffering. On the other hand, costs such as increased taxation and resource allocation are weighed against these benefits.

Empirical evidence supports the utilitarian case for universal healthcare. Countries with comprehensive healthcare systems, such as the UK and Canada, demonstrate better health outcomes and higher levels of public satisfaction compared to nations without such systems (OECD, 2020). These findings suggest that the net utility, considering both pleasure and suffering, is greater where healthcare coverage is broad and inclusive. Furthermore, from Mill’s perspective, the quality of happiness matters; accessible healthcare enhances the overall quality of life, fulfilling higher pleasures related to well-being and security (Mill, 1863).

Critics may argue that universal healthcare imposes significant economic costs and government intervention. However, utilitarian reasoning considers whether these costs are justified by the benefits. The reduction in suffering and enhancement of societal well-being outweigh economic concerns, especially when the healthcare system leads to a healthier, more productive population. Additionally, preventive care reduces long-term costs associated with advanced diseases, aligning with utilitarian goals of maximizing utility over time (Fuchs, 2010).

In conclusion, applying Bentham and Mill’s utilitarian principles to universal healthcare provides a robust ethical justification for supporting this moral issue. The maximization of happiness and the reduction of suffering align with the core tenets of utilitarianism. The evidence and theoretical framework demonstrate that universal healthcare, by promoting overall societal well-being, truly embodies the greatest good for the greatest number. This utilitarian perspective affirms the moral correctness of advocating for universal healthcare as a means to enhance societal utility.

References

• Bentham, J. (1789). An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation.
• Fuchs, V. (2010). The Economics of Health Care Reform. Harvard University Press.
• Mill, J. S. (1863). Utilitarianism. Parker, Son, and Bourn.
• Culyer, A. J., & Wagstaff, A. (2012). Health Economics. Oxford University Press.
• OECD. (2020). Health at a Glance: Europe 2020. OECD Publishing.