The Utilitarian view is an ethical theory championed by philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the 1700s, which states that the highest form of morality and virtue is that which best serves to increase overall human happiness and well-being According to this view, an action or decision should be judged based on the consequence of the action or decision and whether it brings about the most overall utility or pleasure. This is a consequentialist view, meaning that the morality of an action or decision is decided by the outcomes of it.
In terms of essay topics, the Utilitarian view can open up discussions about many different areas of life. Here are five interesting examples:
1. The Euthanasia Debate: An essay could look at the moral implications of euthanasia from the perspective of utilitarianism. This could look at whether it is better for a terminally ill patient to suffer extreme pain, with no hope of recovery, or if it is right to provide a peaceful death in order to provide them with the most pleasurable outcome.
2. The Debate of Animal Testing: An essay could explore the debate around animal testing in the medical and pharmaceutical industries. It could look at whether the suffering of animals is worth the potential life-saving outcomes that could be achieved by continuing to use animals as test subjects.
3. The Debate Around Immigration: An essay could look at the debate around immigration, specifically if it benefits society more to allow people to enter and live in a country, no matter their economic or social situation. It could look at how welcoming people from different backgrounds can be beneficial for human progress and overall happiness for all people.
4. The Ethics of Capital Punishment: An essay could look at the morality of capital punishment from a utilitarian standpoint. It could analyse how the outcomes of severe punishments can act as a deterrent, as well as whether the suffering of an individual outweighs the potential benefit of deterring others.
5. The Debate Around War: An essay could explore the debate around wars and conflicts, with a specific focus on whether the outcomes of war justify the suffering that is caused. It could analyse the long-term consequences or potential benefits of waging war, and how they benefit or detract from humanity's overall wellbeing.
These are just five of many possible topics that can be explored from a utilitarian viewpoint. Ultimately, utilitarianism can be used to analyse any issue, so long as the outcomes of a decision are taken into consideration in order to decide if it is the right decision.