Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism maximizes happiness for the greatest number

The demandingness objection to utilitarianism argues that it can require individuals to make extreme sacrifices for the benefit of others. This can be seen as unfair or overly burdensome, as it demands more from some individuals than others. Critics argue that this aspect of utilitarianism undermines its moral appeal and practicality.

Example

A utilitarian might argue that sacrificing one's own minor interests for the greater good of society is morally justified. For instance, donating a significant portion of one's income to charity could be seen as maximizing overall happiness, even if it imposes a heavy financial burden on the individual.

Understanding the demandingness objection helps us critically evaluate the ethical implications and practical challenges of utilitarianism.

Related concepts

utilitarianism's 'utility monster' problem is

Utility monster problem: One being's pleasure justifies others' suffering

Immanuel Kant

Kant separates duty from inclination to determine moral worth

A Theory of Justice

Nozick's entitlement theory argues against Rawls — redistribution violates individual rights

Emmanuel Levinas

Levinas argues that ethics precedes knowledge

Axiological ethics

Max Scheler's material value ethics opposed Kant's purely formal ethics

The Ethics of Ambiguity

Simone de Beauvoir's Ethics of Ambiguity challenges Sartre's Being and Nothingness

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