Assessing John Stuart Mill’s Principle of Utility: Barrier or Bridge to Equality?

Komathi Muthu Raja and Mohd Syahmir Alias
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Komathi Muthu Raja: School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Mohd Syahmir Alias: School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024, vol. 8, issue 9, 1973-1983

Abstract: Amidst the historical and ongoing struggle for equality, this article explores the intricate relationship between the principle of utility and equality, focusing on John Stuart Mill’s views. It critically evaluates whether Mill’s version of utilitarianism serves as a barrier or a bridge to achieving equality, particularly within the context of movements like the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda, which addresses social, political, and economic inequalities. The methodology involves a comprehensive critical analysis of Mill’s utilitarianism alongside other theoretical perspectives, including Jeremy Bentham’s utilitarianism and contemporary critiques. The analysis is structured around three key areas: social, political, and economic contexts. In the social domain, Mill’s utilitarianism supports substantive equality by advocating for universal rights and access to essential resources such as education. Politically, however, utilitarian principles are critiqued for potentially justifying inequalities and infringing upon individual rights. Economically, utilitarianism’s emphasis on maximizing overall happiness suggests that resource allocation should consider marginal utility to promote equitable outcomes. The findings indicate that while Mill’s utilitarianism has the potential to foster equality in specific areas, its application is complex and context dependent. The article concludes that although Mill’s nuanced approach to utilitarianism can promote equality, it also possesses inherent limitations, necessitating careful application to avoid exacerbating inequalities and to ensure that principles of justice and individual rights are upheld.

Date: 2024
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