Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill. Audiobook, full length

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"Utilitarianism" is a classic work of moral and political philosophy written by John Stuart Mill, a 19th-century British philosopher and political economist. Published in 1861, the book is a comprehensive exploration and defense of the ethical theory known as utilitarianism. This philosophy asserts that the rightness of actions should be determined by their ability to promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

The book is divided into several chapters, and here's a detailed summary of its key ideas and arguments:

1. Introduction:
- Mill begins by stating that utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory, meaning that the morality of an action is determined by the consequences it produces.
- He distinguishes between higher and lower pleasures, emphasizing that intellectual and moral pleasures are superior to physical ones.

2. What Utilitarianism Is:
- Mill clarifies that utilitarianism is the principle of utility, which holds that actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness and wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness.

3. Of the Ultimate Sanction of the Principle of Utility:
- Mill addresses critics who argue that utilitarianism promotes a self-centered approach by explaining that utilitarianism's ultimate end is the greatest happiness of all, not just the individual's happiness.
- He defends utilitarianism against charges of impracticality, asserting that it provides clear moral guidance.

4. Of What Sort of Proof the Principle of Utility is Susceptible:
- Mill argues that the principle of utility is self-evident, supported by human experience, and rooted in human nature.
- He maintains that the proof of utility is a matter of induction, relying on the accumulation of evidence from everyday experiences.

5. On the Connection Between Justice and Utility:
- Mill examines the relationship between justice and utility, contending that justice is a subset of utility and that it is derived from utility's foundational principles.

6. Of the Sanctions of Utilitarianism:
- Mill discusses the internal and external sanctions of utilitarianism. Internal sanctions are individual feelings of moral obligation, while external sanctions are societal laws and consequences.

7. Of the Ultimate Authority of the Principle of Utility:
- Mill addresses the question of what gives utilitarianism its authority. He argues that the principle of utility is authoritative because it appeals to human nature and the intrinsic desire for happiness.

8. Of the Practical Influence of the Theory:
- Mill acknowledges the practical challenges of implementing utilitarianism but emphasizes the importance of promoting its principles in society.

9. General Remarks:
- In the final chapter, Mill addresses criticisms and objections to utilitarianism, clarifying his position and highlighting its relevance in ethical decision-making.

Throughout the book, Mill defends utilitarianism as a moral theory that, when properly understood and applied, can guide human actions and promote the greatest good for the greatest number. He also addresses common misconceptions and objections to the theory, aiming to demonstrate its practicality and relevance in the moral and political spheres.

"Utilitarianism" remains a foundational text in the field of ethics and continues to influence contemporary discussions on morality, ethics, and the balance between individual rights and societal welfare. Mill's work is celebrated for its clarity of thought, rigorous argumentation, and its enduring impact on the study of ethics and philosophy.

CHAPTER I. 00:00:00
CHAPTER II. 00:10:58
CHAPTER III. 01:04:21
CHAPTER IV. 01:25:02
CHAPTER V. 01:41:54
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