This theory of utilitarianism is in relation of the positivism presumption of situation ethics, were love should be the most important criterion of all.
I believe the theory which makes most sense is Jeremy Bentham’s theory of the hedonic calculus. However due to many decisions and actions having to be made in a matter of seconds, I can’t see it being practical in everyday life. The process of the hedonic calculus can take a matter of hours let alone minuets, and by following the process step-by step the decision that had to be made may have already passed. In relation to John mills theory of maximum pleasure and minimal pain, I strongly disagree that this is the correct answer for many ethical situations. Everyone’s pleasures are different and individual, for you to make a decision this can become a hindrance as it’s hard to define how to receive the maximum happiness from every individual. Using this theory in just a situation when it’s just your happiness involved however is a simple process, as you will know your preferences and what makes you happy. However when using this theory in a situation with more than one person it becomes a very complicated situation.
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