Utilitarianism and Social Policy, Reaction Paper Example

Utilitarianism is a philosophical movement essentially defined by what pleases the most people. Morality is defined by the majority. The trend that follows is one of hedonistic pursuits with the avoidance of pain. Initially, this philosophy was delineated by Jeremy Bentham and later expounded on by John Stuart Mills. Utilitarian proponents view all things as measured by the amount of happiness they can elicit rather than the intrinsic value. The moral compass of any individual is gained from actual experiences, rather than any set of core values instilled in the individual by a higher power.

Utilitarianism has largely been successful amongst the English, who consider all experiences derived from the five senses. This doctrine is contrary necessitates a physical experience as a means of understanding right from wrong, morality from immorality. The lineage of such a concept can be traced back to Hobbes’ code of ethics as measured by what best serves the individual while disregarding others. However, the utilitarian ideals are more carefully crafted, taking consideration of the greater good for the greater number of individuals.

It is true that a perfect society in which all can be perfectly content is impossible. Therefore the only possible recourse is to try to please the majority. That is the fundamental premise of a democracy which holds to a standard of majority rule. As exemplified in various democracies around the world, a rule by the people has tremendous success while political regimes that are totalitarian in nature are not as successful socioeconomically.

In December of 1991, the Soviet Union devolved into fifteen separate countries as democracy triumphed over totalitarianism; the Cold War was finally put to rest. Once again, the rule of a dictator or totalitarian government toppled, providing more legitimacy to the concept of democracy and utilitarianism. After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1919, a philosophy of socialism took hold of Russia, and only intensified in the 40s and 50s through Stalinism. But ultimately the core belief that a government knows what’s best for the individual and dictates rules and regulations without any input from the individual is false. Totalitarianism – which is utterly contrary to the premise of utilitarianism – has been unsuccessful in many endeavors through the implementation of Communism as political rule. Gradually the communism turned into totalitarianism, and once again, the country was overwhelmed with social unrest until a more utilitarian approach was taken.

The democratic structure of the United States government has proven efficient and successful in its utilitarian ideals. There are many facets of society that have their voices heard on a regular basis in the legislature. Reporters are actually allowed access to the floor of any chamber when Congress is in session. Lobbyists, or individuals who are paid to influence legislators to benefit people, businesses, and groups. It all becomes a highly-organized and one-of-a-kind type of government – one that isn’t perfect but probably comes closer to perfection than almost any other form of national regime.

We are still learning how to establish laws which benefit everyone, but this is an ongoing process for countries all over the world, and – in the meantime, we have a democratic process which demonstrates a true desire to serve people from all walks of life in the best way possible.   Our government, “of the people, for the people, and by the people” remains an example of republican representation which works hard to provide happiness and success for every citizen of every race and creed.